10 Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

1. Eat a balanced diet

Try to eat a variety of the following: breads, cereals, rice, fruit, vegetables, milk and dairy foods, meat, fish, egg and pulses.

2. Avoid certain foods

Soft cheeses, pâté, soft boiled eggs, liver and liver based foods, undercooked meat.

3. Take folic acid

Folic acid can help reduce the risk of spina bifida. Take a supplement of at least 400 micrograms daily. Also eat more foods rich in folic acid such as broccoli, spinach, avocado, brussel sprouts, granary bread and marmite.

4. Stop smoking

Smoking during pregnancy is harmful to your baby and carries a higher risk of premature birth. Also avoid passive smoking.

5. Avoid alcohol

Limit your alcohol intake to 1 or 2 units per week.
(1 unit = 1 small glass or wine, or ½ pint of lager or 1 measure of spirit or liqueur).

6. Avoid taking over the counter medicines

Speak to your midwife or doctor for advice.

7. Take time to relax

Rest whenever you are able to and during the day when possible especially in the later months of your pregnancy.

8. Take regular exercise

Walking, swimming and yoga are all beneficial. Avoid strenuous exercise.

9. Be aware of the risk of toxoplasmosis

A dangerous parasitic infection. Wear gloves when gardening. Avoid handling cat litter. Wash fruit and vegetables and cook meat thoroughly.

10. Attend antenatal appointments regularly and parentcraft classes

Antenatal appointments are important for regular health check ups throughout your pregnancy. Parentcraft classes are a good opportunity for mums-to-be and their partners to learn about pregnancy, labour, birth, relaxation exercises and baby-care.