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It goes without saying that a healthy baby is born through a healthy pregnancy, which requires a healthy mother. Many women are more concerned with their health and lifestyles after they conceive the baby, but doctors are advising women to be just as, if not more concerned with their pre-pregnant health.
A woman’s weight prior to becoming pregnant directly affects her prenatal experience. Women who are overweight or obese are more likely to experience problems giving birth, including heightened risks of preeclampsia, miscarriages, or stillbirths. As a result, women should uphold a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine before attempting to get pregnant.
Doctors recommend that women take folic acid supplements, both during and prior to conceiving a baby. Medical research suggests the vitamin reduces the likelihood of complications during birth.
Doctors also advise that women who smoke should quit before attempting to get pregnant. Low birth weight, pre-term births and birth defects are caused by smoking and inhaling second-hand smoke. Smoking can also lower fertility levels, making it difficult to conceive in the first place.
