Preparing for Pregnancy (for Her)

Are you planning to get pregnant? Are you ready for motherhood?

To prepare for a smooth-sailing pregnancy, here is a guide on different ways to keep mentally and physically healthy!

Nutrition

• Folic Acid
• Take 5mg of folic acid at least three months before getting pregnant and this is to be continued until week 12 of pregnancy. Folic acid is a type of Vitamin B that is needed for the formation of red blood cells, the development of the baby’s nervous system, and preventing malformations in the baby (such as spina bifida).
• Have a well-balanced diet
• Include dark green vegetables like spinach and asparagus.
• Red meat, chicken, fish, egg yolk, and green leafy vegetables are sources of iron and help to prevent anaemia.
• Fish such as salmon and sardine contribute to healthy development of baby’s eyes and brain.
• Milk, hard cheese, yoghurt and soy contain calcium for bone development. Take them with Vitamin D for better absorption of calcium.



Lifestyle

Exercise regularly

• Lose weight before pregnancy if you are obese or overweight. Obesity is linked to infertility. Having a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) will make it easier for you to get pregnant successfully and reduce the risks of a complicated pregnancy

Vaccination

• Getting the right vaccinations is important to protect you and your future baby. Do ensure that you are protected against Rubella (German Measles), Varicella (Chicken pox) and Hepatitis B. If you are not vaccinated yet, do set aside some time before getting pregnant to get vaccinated.

Quit smoking

• When a pregnant woman smokes, her baby “smokes” with her. Babies born to smokers tend to have lower birth weight, slower growth, greater risk of asthma, and breathing problems. If you require assistance to quit smoking, call the QuitLine: 1800-438-2000.

Do not consume alcohol or drugs

• Alcohol can cause irreversible intellectual damage in your baby. It crosses into the placenta and may result in lifelong learning disabilities, memory problems, attention deficits and impulsive behaviour. If you have any medical conditions, please seek your doctor’s advice and have these under control to ensure that it is safe for you to get pregnant, and to ensure a better outcome for you and your baby



Mental Health

• Remain calm and stay mentally positive.
• Some couples may take a longer time to get pregnant. Women wanting to become pregnant should avoid high levels of stress as there is a complex interplay between high stress levels and the menstrual cycle.
• Be prepared for the changes and continue to communicate with your spouse.
• Pregnancy brings about changes in your body. Communicate with your husband. Let him understand any fears you may have about getting pregnant. Allow him to be with you and support you throughout your pregnancy journey together. A healthy relationship with your
  spouse is important in creating a stable and safe environment for your future children.