Diet and exercise
Women are often motivated to look after themselves really well during pregnancy. You are not “eating for two” so simply maintaining a diet rich in fruit, vegies and protein is important. A good strategy is to avoid processed foods as much as possible…….although who doesn’t like a pizza on a Saturday night!
Exercise is equally important to feel fit and healthy throughout your pregnancy. If you already play a sport, run or ride a bike you can usually continue but you should talk to you doctor, physio or sports club about any restrictions you should consider.
A healthy weight and good level of fitness reduces the chance of most pregnancy complications.
Smoking, drugs & alcohol
Stop smoking, don’t drink alcohol and don’t take drugs. Each of these things affects your health and the growth and development of your baby. Your doctor would be very happy to support you as necessary.
- Quit smoking support:
Quit Line on 13 78 48 or makesmokinghistory.org.au
- Drug and alcohol support:
Palmeston Association 9892 2100
Mental Wellbeing
A new pregnancy can be happy and exciting but can also be scary and lonely. Relationships can change and finances can become stressed. Caring for you mental health is just as important at looking after your physical health. There are many resources particularly for expectant mums and dads. Just come and talk to your GP or look online. A couple of resources are:
- The Gidget Foundation: 1300 851 758 or gidgetfoundation.org.au/
- PANDA: 1300 726 306 or panda.org.au/
- Anglicare: 1300 114 446 or anglicarewa.org.au/
Folate
Take folate until 12 weeks of pregnancy to support baby’s brain and spinal cord development.
Listeria
This is an infection caused by bacteria which can cause miscarriage. There is plenty of information available on which foods to avoid and suitable alternatives.
This website has a wealth of information on what listeria is, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment & prevention: www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/listeria-food-poisoning
You should always feel free to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your GP
This article has been written by Dr Liz Tompkins
