Pregnant and healthy

Pregnancy Awareness Week is an annual event that takes place in February. The focus is on better maternal health for all, with the strong belief that pregnancy can and should be a truly amazing time for a woman. Being physically, emotionally and mentally prepared is vital to ensuring that a pregnancy goes smoothly and is free of preventable complications.

When you make the decision to expand your family, there are a number of factors to consider both before and during your pregnancy.

Before

A visit to your GP is the best place to start if you have decided to start trying for a baby. Aside from the necessary lifestyle changes, your doctor will also discuss any existing health conditions that may affect your pregnancy.

It is important to have an HIV test before becoming pregnant to determine your HIV status. If you are HIV positive, your doctor can take the necessary steps to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.

During

An important part of having a healthy pregnancy is antenatal or prenatal care. Your GP or gynaecologist will provide you with vital information and support to assist you with your pregnancy and the birth of your child, all of which can help prevent possible complications. Make sure your care provider is someone you trust and with whom you feel comfortable.

Watch how you eat during your pregnancy as this also affects your baby’s health. Make sure that your diet is balanced and you are obtaining the nutrients required. Take care to avoid seafood that is undercooked or high in mercury; avoid undercooked meat, poultry and eggs and steer clear of unpasteurised foods, such as unpasteurised cheeses, as these could contain parasites and bacteria that could harm your baby. In addition to a healthy diet, you might need to take certain supplements before and during your pregnancy – follow your doctor’s recommendations in this regard.

Unless your doctor advises against it, the right kind of exercise during your pregnancy will greatly benefit both you and your baby. Consider gentle forms of physical activity such as walking or swimming.

Avoid smoking, drugs and alcohol at all costs as these are extremely dangerous to a growing foetus and can result in learning disabilities, premature births and underweight babies. Some medications may also be harmful; be sure to consult your doctor before taking anything.

Bankmed support

Baby-and-Me is Bankmed’s Maternity Programme to inform and empower expectant moms and dads during pregnancy. Register now to access additional Insured Benefits during your pregnancy. You can request an application form to register by sending an e-mail to babyandme@bankmed.co.za. Alternatively visit www.bankmed.co.za or contact the Bankmed customer call centre on 0800-BANKMED (0800-226-5633).