Healthy Pregnancy

What is pregnancy?

The period of the mother’s incubation of the fetus in the womb from the beginning of its formation (fertilization) until the date of its birth.

This period extends to approximately 40 weeks or about 9 months starting from the date of the last menstrual period until the day of birth.

Pregnancy diagnosis

Pregnancy tests detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), which is produced during pregnancy.

Urine or blood tests can be used to determine the presence of this hormone.
Home pregnancy tests (urine tests) are inexpensive and widely used. When used correctly, they are accurate.

Pregnancy Symptoms

Delayed menstruation
Breast swelling and pain
Nausea with or without vomiting
Frequent urination
Fatigue
Mood swings
Cramps
Constipation

Nutrition during pregnancy

Good nutrition is important during pregnancy to maintain the health of the mother and fetus. The quality of food is more important than its quantity, so it is recommended to choose healthy foods with high nutritional value and avoid unhealthy foods.

The importance of good nutrition during pregnancy

Builds bones and blood cells for the fetus
Reduces pregnancy discomfort and problems
Boosts immunity to prevent infectious diseases
Prevents iron deficiency anemia
Strengthens the body in preparation for childbirth
Promotes milk production for breastfeeding

Calorie intake

During the first trimester: No change from the woman’s needs before pregnancy.
During the second and third trimesters: Add 300 calories.
Daily calorie needs should generally be discussed with your doctor, as each woman’s needs are different.

Important nutritional supplements during pregnancy

Iron
Folic acid
Omega-3
Calcium
Vitamin D

Physical activity during pregnancy

Changes occur in the pregnant woman’s body due to hormonal changes. Physical activity is beneficial, but the type and intensity should be determined with a doctor based on the woman’s pre-pregnancy condition.

Benefits of physical activity

Prepares the body for childbirth.
Maintains fitness and strengthens abdominal muscles.
Reduces back pain, constipation, and pelvic weight.
Improves sleep and circulation.
Helps return weight to normal post-childbirth.

Pregnancy complications

The risk of complications depends on the medical history. Regular check-ups before, during, and after pregnancy can help avoid:

Loss of motivation and drive to work and be productive.
Loss of interest and desire to engage in activities that the person with schizophrenia previously cared about.
Inability to carry out tasks and feeling tired, fatigued, and unenthusiastic.
Gestational diabetes
High blood pressure
Anemia
Urinary tract infections
Obesity
Depression
Bleeding
Vomiting and dehydration

Gestational diabetes

Occurs in the 5th or 6th month due to hormone resistance to insulin action. Usually disappears post-delivery but can return or lead to Type 2 diabetes.

Risk factors

Overweight or rapid weight gain
Family history of diabetes
Age over 35 years
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Previous gestational diabetes
Excess fluid around the fetus

Complications

For the mother: Increased cesarean section risk, urinary tract infections, future diabetes.
For the fetus: Weight gain, low blood sugar, low calcium, respiratory issues.

Treatment

Balanced diet
Regular exercise
Medications (oral or insulin injections)

High blood pressure during pregnancy

Types:

Gestational hypertension: High BP after 20 weeks, no organ damage.
Preeclampsia: High BP with organ damage after 20 weeks.
Chronic hypertension: Pre-existing or before 20 weeks.