Are you pregnant? Here's what you need to know

Pregnancy Awareness Week takes place between 8 and 14 February 2017. Expecting a new baby is probably one of the most exciting, but also the most daunting things you can experience. When you are pregnant, your body's needs change rapidly and you should adjust your lifestyle accordingly.

Your diet during pregnancy
During your pregnancy your body will need extra nutrients to help feed and nourish your baby. It is important that you eat many fruits and vegetables, as they are full of the vitamins and minerals that you and your baby need.

In addition, your calcium intake should increase by about 50%, which means more milk, yogurt and other dairy products. Try to avoid any fish that might contain high levels of mercury like swordfish, king mackerel and other large species. Top off your healthy diet with a good quality pre-natal vitamin supplement.

Exercise and work
Experts agree that exercise will increase energy and improve your body image during your pregnancy. You will still be able to do most exercises that you did before your pregnancy, however, be mindful not to overdo it. Tone down your exercises to a low impact workout, such as swimming or a brisk walk, and try to avoid lifting heavy objects.

GEMS Maternity Programme
Consider joining the GEMS Maternity Programme. By being on the programme, your decisions during pregnancy can be better informed, as you will receive advice from a team of healthcare professionals who can answer all your general health, pregnancy and reproductive health-related questions. The programme is open to all GEMS members and their dependants. You can join by filling in an enrolment form, which can be found on the GEMS website.