Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can be a stressful one too. With so
many things to take care of, both physically and emotionally, it's not easy to
stay on track and ensure a healthy pregnancy. It’s essential to take care of
yourself during this time and seek medical attention early and often during
your pregnancy.
Since the start of Covid-19, the United States has seen an increase in its
maternal mortality rate. This increase has many causes, including maternal
age, underlying heart conditions, severe bleeding, infections, high blood
pressure, and lack of proper prenatal care during pregnancy.
Starting your pregnancy with proper prenatal care is essential to identifying
risk factors for complications during and after pregnancy. Scheduling an
appointment with your OBGYN or Midwife in the first trimester allows your
provider to run an array of tests to determine the best course of care for
your pregnancy and postpartum journey.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique. It is important to listen to your body
and consult your healthcare team for guidance. Following these tips for a
healthy lifestyle can contribute to a smoother pregnancy and better
outcomes for you and your baby.
Attend regular prenatal care:
Regular prenatal care is essential to monitor your health and your baby's
development. Attend all your prenatal appointments and talk to your doctor
about any concerns you may have. Keeping a journal with a list of
questions and concerns will help you to prepare for your appointments.
Eat a nutritious diet:
Eating a balanced and healthy diet is the foundation of having a healthy
pregnancy. You need plenty of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support
your baby's growth and development. Your healthcare provider may
recommend prenatal vitamins to help supplement your nutritional needs
during pregnancy.
Exercise regularly:
Exercise is essential to maintain a healthy pregnancy. It can help you
manage your weight, reduce stress, improve your sleep, and prepare your
body for childbirth. Walking, swimming, and yoga can be a great low-
impact way to increase your daily exercise. Always consult your medical
provider before starting a new exercise routine.
Manage your stress:
Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster, and stress can take a toll on
your physical and mental health. Relaxation techniques such as deep
breathing, meditation, and mindfulness practices can help to keep a
peaceful mind and heart. Surround yourself with positive energy and
indulge in activities that make you happy.
How can we help:
As Professional Healthcare Advocates at Renee & Company, LLC, our
primary goal is to provide support for your healthcare needs. We can
provide support during your prenatal care appointments by helping you
understand the medical information you receive and answering any
questions you may have. Renee & Company Healthcare Advocates can be
powerful allies in advocating for your rights as a pregnant woman. We can
help you understand your legal rights and options, and we can advocate for
you if you feel you are not being treated fairly or if your needs are not being
met. During pregnancy, having a healthcare advocate by your side can
make a world of difference.
The Final Take:
Pregnancy is a life-changing event, and it is essential to prioritize your
health and the health of your unborn baby throughout this journey. Trust
your instincts, listen to your body, and seek support when you need it. With
a little bit of self-care and love, you will have a healthy pregnancy and a
new bundle of joy.
Author:
Rena Ford-Karcher
Director of Care Management at Renee & Co
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