Learning about pregnancy

• Medical Exams Your doctor or midwife will confirm your pregnancy and they will suggest regular medical exams and introduce you to your midwife
• Folic Acid By getting the proper amount of Folic Acid you significantly reduce your baby's risk for spinal bifida. The current recommendation is 0.4 mg of folic acid daily but your doctor or midwife will confirm this.
• Zinc will boost the immune system The baby’s organs are formed during the first eight months of pregnancy. The mineral zinc will help boost the immune system.
• German Measles (Rubella) German measles (Rubella), if caught during pregnancy, can lead to miscarriages and foetal deformities. The best way to avoid this possibility is to be vaccinated against Rubella prior to getting pregnant.
• Prenatal Vitamins You should watch your diet and ensure that you are having plenty of vitamins during pregnancy, and by taking special prenatal vitamins you guarantee that you are getting everything you need.
• Protein Pregnant women need 75 grams to 100 grams of protein daily. Adequate protein is essential for the development of the baby (especially the brain) and may help protect against pre-eclampsia during pregnancy.
  See page on ‘I am having a baby…What should I eat’
• Fat in Your Diet 2 tablespoons of fat a day is recommended for pregnant women as fat and cholesterol are important for absorbing the fat soluble vitamins (A,D,E, and K) This also allows your skin to stretch and helps the baby’s brain develop.
• Eat and Exercise You also need to exercise and watch your weight as you normally would.
• House Plants One of the best ways to filter and remove chemicals from your house is with house plants. Spider plants, for example, are good at removing formaldehyde and other chemicals that are emitted by paints and stains, carpet, particle board, household cleaners and so on..
• You Should Take Care When Travelling Travelling when pregnant requires some special considerations, especially when visiting foreign countries.
• Existing Conditions and Family History Talk to your doctor know about any pre-existing conditions you may have, any chronic problems or a family history of reproductive problems. Pre-existing conditions include things such as diabetes, herpes (and other STDs), heart problems, epilepsy and high blood pressure. She/he can then take appropriate action sooner rather than later.

What should I avoid?

I am having a baby - what should I eat?