Healthy Wise Social:

Here is a numbered list of some things a woman should do medically during pregnancy:

1. Schedule regular prenatal care visits with a doctor or midwife. (Talk to a Pregnancy Educator: 1-800-672-2296 https://americanpregnancy.org/ )This typically involves checkups, screenings, and blood tests throughout the pregnancy.
2. Take prenatal vitamins as recommended by a doctor. These provide folic acid and other nutrients important for fetal development.
3. Maintain a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Aim for a balanced approach and avoid foods that could be harmful during pregnancy https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/pregnancy/nutrition-and-physical-activity/eat-healthy-during-pregnancy-quick-tips.
4. Engage in moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week, unless advised otherwise by a doctor. Regular exercise can improve mood, reduce pregnancy discomfort, and promote overall health. Walking is a great low-impact option.
5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for eight or more glasses per day.
6. Get enough sleep. Most pregnant women need around 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
7. Consider taking fish oil supplements after consulting with a doctor. Fish oil may provide benefits like reducing inflammation and improving mood.

Additional Recommendations:

• Maintain a healthy weight: A doctor can advise on healthy weight gain during pregnancy.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs. These substances can harm the developing baby.
• Manage stress levels through healthy practices like yoga or meditation.
• Practice good dental hygiene: Regular dental checkups are recommended during pregnancy.
• Sleep on your side: Sleeping on your left side is generally considered the best position for pregnant women, as it improves blood circulation to the uterus and baby.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing: Tight clothing can restrict blood flow and be uncomfortable.
• Learn about the signs and symptoms of pregnancy complications and report any concerns to a doctor immediately.

Important Note: This list is intended for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or midwife for personalized guidance throughout pregnancy.

Sources

info

1. www.babylist.com/hello-baby/pregnancy-diet

Finding a Midwife:

• American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM):https://www.midwife.org/
  • Offers a search tool to find certified nurse-midwives in your area.
  • Provides information about the benefits of midwife-assisted care.
• Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA):https://www.nacpm.org/
  • While they don’t maintain a current list of midwives, they offer resources for finding midwives in your area and information about midwifery care.
• American Pregnancy Association (APA):https://americanpregnancy.org/
  • Provides general information about midwives and resources for finding one.

Becoming a Midwife:

• American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM):https://www.midwife.org/
  • Offers information on the education and training pathways to become a certified nurse-midwife.
• Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA):https://www.nacpm.org/
  • Provides resources on becoming a certified midwife, including different certification options.
• American Midwifery Certification Corporation (AMCC):https://www.amcbmidwife.org/
  • The official certification body for midwives in the US. Provides information on the certification process and requirements.

Remember, becoming a midwife is a significant career path requiring extensive education and training. These resources are a good starting point for exploring the field and finding qualified midwives in your area.