Safe Motherhood Day: Things To Keep In Mind During First, Second And Third Trimesters For A Safe Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative journey, but it also requires extra care and attention to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. The first, second, and third trimesters are critical stages in pregnancy, each with its own unique challenges and considerations. 

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and seasonal flu pose additional risks and concerns that pregnant women need to be aware of. On Safe Motherhood Day, let’s take a look at some things you need to keep in mind during each trimester for a safe pregnancy.

Safe Motherhood Day: How To Stay Safe During The First, Second And Third Trimesters For A Safe Pregnancy

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)

During the first trimester, the fertilized egg implants itself in the lining of the uterus and begins to grow into an embryo. This stage is crucial for the development of the baby’s organs, and it is important for the mother to take extra care of her health. Here are some things to be careful about during the first trimester:

Prenatal Care

It is crucial to start prenatal care as soon as possible after finding out you are pregnant. Regular visits with your healthcare provider will help ensure that your pregnancy is progressing well and identify any potential issues early on. 

During these visits, your doctor will perform various tests, including blood work, urine tests, and ultrasounds, to monitor the development of the fetus and identify any potential complications. Be sure to follow your provider’s recommendations for prenatal vitamins and any other supplements.

Avoid Certain Foods

During the first trimester, it is important to avoid certain foods that can pose a risk to the developing fetus. These include raw or undercooked meat, fish with high levels of mercury, raw eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products. It is also important to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly to remove any potential contaminants.

Take Precautions Against COVID-19 and Flu

Besides other infections, pregnant women may be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 and flu, so it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself and your baby. This includes wearing a mask, practising good hand hygiene, avoiding large gatherings, and getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27)

The second trimester is often referred to as the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy, as many women experience a reduction in symptoms and increased energy levels. However, it is still important to be vigilant about your health and take precautions to ensure the safety of your growing baby. Here are some things to be careful about during the second trimester:

Exercise

Exercise is important during pregnancy, but it is essential to be careful and avoid activities that could put undue stress on your body or pose a risk to the developing fetus. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or prenatal yoga, are typically safe and can provide numerous benefits for both you and your baby.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester of pregnancy and can pose a risk to the health of the mother and baby. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes. Your healthcare provider may also recommend regular blood sugar testing to monitor your glucose levels.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40)

The third trimester is the final stage of pregnancy, and the baby will continue to grow and develop rapidly. During this stage, it is important to be vigilant about your health and take precautions to ensure safe and healthy delivery. Here are some things to be careful about during the third trimester:

Prenatal Testing

During the third trimester, your healthcare provider may recommend additional prenatal testing, including non-stress tests and ultrasounds, to monitor the health of the baby and prepare for delivery.

Preterm Labour

Preterm labour, or labour that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, can pose a significant risk to the health of the baby. Be sure to report any signs of preterm labour, such as contractions or vaginal bleeding, to your healthcare provider immediately.

Pregnancy is a journey that requires extra care and attention to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. Each trimester presents its own unique challenges and considerations, and it is important to take precautions to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. 

In addition, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and seasonal flu pose additional risks and concerns, and pregnant women should take extra precautions to protect themselves and their babies. 

By following the guidelines recommended by your doctor, pregnant women can help ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. Remember to seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your pregnancy.

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Also Read:

Caring For Your Hair While Caring For Your Baby: Best Hair Care Routine For New Mums

Skin Care For Mums: The Ultimate Skincare Products List For Healthy Glowing Skin

Cover image source: freepik