Planning for a healthy pregnancy should ideally begin well in advance. Dr. Una Pant, an obstetrician and gynecologist at the frontline hospital, emphasizes the importance of early preparation, especially considering that a significant portion of pregnancies are unplanned. Early planning helps mitigate the risk of fetal exposure to avoidable factors such as medications or alcohol.

1. Plan for Pregnancy

Plan for pregnancy is essential, according to Dr. Una. She highlights that organogenesis, the period when the fetus forms organs, occurs very early in pregnancy. If the pregnancy is unplanned, there’s a greater risk of fetal exposure to modifiable risks such as medications, drugs, or alcohol.

Moreover, planning for pregnancy enables you and your physician to ensure any chronic health conditions, like high blood pressure, are well-managed. If necessary, your doctor can assist you in transitioning to medications safer for pregnancy.

2. Take your daily prenatal vitamins

Dr. Pant advises initiating daily prenatal vitamin intake containing at least 400mcg of folic acid for attempting to conceive. This practice significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects. She suggests continuing these vitamins throughout pregnancy and even into the postpartum period.

3. Get up to date on your immunizations before pregnancy

Ensuring that immunizations are up-to-date before pregnancy is crucial. Vaccinations such as influenza, and others help prevent infections and associated complications. Dr. Pant advises discussing vaccination schedules with healthcare providers before conception.

4. Establish prenatal care

Regular prenatal care is vital for a healthy pregnancy. It enables early detection and management of potential complications, thereby reducing risks to both mother and baby. Dr. Pant underscores the importance of establishing care early, particularly if there are any signs of complications like vaginal bleeding, which could indicate a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy.

5. Stay active during pregnancy

Maintaining physical activity during pregnancy is encouraged, provided it’s safe and with modifications as advised by a healthcare provider. Exercise offers numerous benefits, including a reduced risk of gestational diabetes and shorter postpartum recovery time.

6. Gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy

Healthy weight gain during pregnancy is emphasized over the outdated notion of “eating for two.” Dr. Pant explains the recommended weight gain ranges based on starting BMI and highlights the importance of gaining weight healthily to minimize risks like preterm labor.

7. Take care of your mental health

Addressing mental health is also crucial during pregnancy. Patients with a history of anxiety or depression should receive appropriate support and treatment to ensure their well-being.

Open communication about substance use is encouraged, as early intervention can significantly impact the health of both the mother and the baby. Healthcare providers offer support and resources to manage addiction during pregnancy.

8. Seek medical care if needed during pregnancy

If you encounter the following symptoms during pregnancy, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care:

• Severe abdominal pain, with or without bleeding
• Persistent high blood pressure exceeding 140/90 or significantly elevated above 160/100

For guidance on pregnancy planning and maintaining a healthy pregnancy, individuals are encouraged to consult with Dr. Una Pant or their primary care provider.

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