First Trimester
After the joy of receiving positive news of your pregnancy, you may realize the importance of taking care of your health. The mammoth responsibility which comes with pregnancy is a lot to comprehend at once, but the earlier you start taking care after your first-trimester screening, the better it will be for the health of your child.
The first trimester of pregnancy lasts up to the 12th week of pregnancy. It is highly recommended that during this period, you plan a visit to the best gynaecologist in south Delhi who may carry out first-trimester screening and ascertain the health of your child in your womb.
Changes in the mother’s body during the first trimester
At this time, an expecting mother’s body is likely to undergo several changes:
- You are likely to feel more tired and gain some weight on your placenta.
- Tenderness in the breasts.
- The rate of breathing and heartbeat are also expected to increase.
- Changes in mood are also apparent at this time.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Food cravings
All this while, all major organs of your offspring will have formed and your baby may grow up to 1.5 inches long. Slowly, as the first trimester comes to an end, an increase in the movement of the fetus can be felt.
It is during the first trimester that your child is most vulnerable. At this time, any exposure to toxic substances can lead to an impact on the organs and body systems of your child, which develop mostly during this time.
By remaining in contact with a high-risk pregnancy doctor in south Delhi, you will reduce the chances of facing any unforeseen circumstances during your pregnancy, as you move forward into the second trimester.
What to do and what to avoid during your first trimester?
During your first trimester screening, your doctor will assist and guide you with several precautions. This will include several do’s and don’ts which will help you through this journey and ensure the good health of the fetus.
Observe These Do’s
Consume enough supplements: Ensure that your diet is rich in healthy supplements such as folic acid, probiotics, calcium, magnesium, and more. These should be enough to meet the health needs of the mother and the child. If required, additional supplements can be taken with your diet after consultation with your doctor.
Take enough rest: With the added instances of fatigue during this period, avoid overworking and take rest often. As the placenta keeps growing, there may be days when you find yourself more tired than usual. It is highly recommended that you take enough naps during the day to help your body relax.
Take the right diet: Include green vegetables and fruits which offer a balance of nutrients to your body. Enough water consumption is just as important, and the lack of it may reflect in your first-trimester screening. As a rule of thumb, your diet must include all the colours of the rainbow. So, it is ideal to consume a healthy mix of dark green vegetables, oranges, carrots, apples, banana, and lots more. This ensures that your body absorbs just the right amount of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which it needs to perform optimum body functions.
First-trimester Exercise: Sitting completely idle may be counterproductive for your health. Undertake light exercise which is recommended by your gynecologist for optimum health.
Avoid These Don’ts
Stress can be harmful: Indulging in too much stress can be detrimental to your health. Depending on your schedule, maintain an optimum balance between your work life and resting time, and ensure that you are keeping enough time to focus on your pregnancy.
Manage your weight: During your first-trimester screening, your weight will be checked by your gynecologist. It is important to start maintaining your weight right from this time to ensure that you do not put on too much of it later.
Travel only when needed: While travelling is okay during your pregnancy, some unforeseen circumstances can put stress and pressure on your body during this time. It is advisable that you consult with your doctor before making any prolonged travel plans and ensure that you get a safe experience while travelling.
Keep alcohol at bay: After your first-trimester screening, you should completely avoid consuming alcohol. It harms the health of the child, especially during the initial stages of your pregnancy.
Avoid smoking: While smoking is not suitable for health, the risk associated with it is more after your first-trimester screening. Toxins from a cigarette can easily dissolve in the bloodstream and reach the baby, where they can cause unfathomable damage to the child.
Reduce intake of certain foods: After your first-trimester screening, you must aim to reduce or eliminate the consumption of certain food items, which are not considered to be healthy for the development of your child. These include undercooked meat, caffeine, certain dairy products, and more.
Avoid eating for two: After your first-trimester screening, many people may advise you to start eating for two! However, unless your doctor asks you to increase your caloric intake, there is no need for you to eat in excess. This can severely lead to an increase in weight and negatively impact the health of your child in the long run.
Take care of yourself
Pregnancy can be an overwhelming journey with a lot to learn, and every day is bringing a new experience for you. It can be helpful to join hands with the best gynecologist in south Delhi, who will be in a better position to guide you along this journey and assist you with any difficulty which you may face during this time. During pregnancy, it can be important to discuss even the smallest matter with someone experienced and trustworthy.Dr Madhu Goel is a reliable and professional gynecology expert in Delhi, who can help you through your pregnancy. Reach out today to plan your appointment.
