Medically Reviewed By Experts Panel
As an expectant mother, it is natural to feel anxious and concerned about your baby’s health and development throughout your pregnancy. Your baby is most vulnerable during the first 12 weeks. During this phase all the major organs and body systems and forming and can be damaged if you do not look after yourself. You have to eat healthy, balanced diet, keep your weight within normal limits, exercise lightly, and have a healthy reading for your basic bodily parameters.
Your biggest concern and challenge in the first trimester should be to ensure good health for yourself and your baby. Both you and your baby are in a delicate, sensitive phase. Any unhealthy decisions or unwise choices can result in the loss of your baby. So crossing the first trimester threshold in good health is vital for your nine month journey.
The risk of miscarriage is highest during the first trimester, and there are various reasons for this. The most common cause of miscarriage during this time is chromosomal abnormalities in the developing foetus. However, maintaining certain healthy lifestyle parameters can go a long way to ensuring both your and your baby’s health and eliminate chances of miscarriage.
- Sustaining pregnancy – In the first trimester, you need to channelize all your positive, affirmative energy to ensure your baby is healthy in your womb. It is important that you have regular prenatal appointments, eat nutritious food, stay active, and refrain from eating raw or undercooked foods.
- Check gestational hypertension – A serious high blood pressure disorder called preeclampsia also can happen during pregnancy. It can be major cause of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a normal blood pressure reading is 120/80 mm Hg and below. Readings below 90/60 mm Hg indicate low blood pressure, or hypotension. Readings above 140/90 mm Hg in pregnancy indicate high blood pressure, or hypertension.
- Check gestational diabetes – a form of high blood sugar affecting pregnant women. In most cases, there are no symptoms. A blood sugar test during pregnancy is used for diagnosis. Treatment strategies include daily blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet, exercise and monitoring the baby. If blood sugar is too high, medication is required.
- Check for infections – Infections during pregnancy can harm both you and your baby. It is important to take some extra precautions and make healthy choices like maintain good hygiene, cook meats thoroughly, wash fruits and vegetables and avoid eating salads and raw foods. Talk to your doctor about getting the right vaccines at the right time.
If you experience any concerning symptoms during the first trimester, such as vaginal bleeding, severe cramping, or a decrease in foetal movement, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider right away. They can provide guidance and support to help ensure the health and wellbeing of you and your baby.
