Pregnancy Awareness Week, 12 - 18 February

Best for you, best for baby

Choosing to have a baby is one of the biggest decisions you can ever make. It is therefore important to carefully consider just what falling pregnant will mean for you and your family. By empowering yourself with knowledge before conceiving you will be able to take the right steps in ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy for you and your baby.

As part of the Government Employees Medical Scheme's (GEMS) ongoing effort to educate our members and future members on a range of healthcare topics, we would like to share real life member stories with you and explore certain important healthcare issues. This article looks at the subject of pregnancy this Pregnancy Awareness Week, 12 - 18 February 2012.

When is the right time to have a baby?

Having a baby is a wonderful yet life-changing event and it is important that you have thought carefully about whether you are ready for it. You and your partner should discuss this together and find out if you are both prepared for the changes that pregnancy and your new baby will bring.

What should I do if I want to have a baby?

When planning your pregnancy you should visit your gynaecologist with your partner at least two to three menstrual cycles in advance. In this way you will be able to ask all the questions that you have before trying to conceive, which can set you on the path to good planning right from the very beginning.

Should I have an HIV test before becoming pregnant?

It is vital that both you and your partner undergo HIV tests before trying to conceive your baby. You should do this even if you have been in a long-term relationship together. This will help you to prevent the transmission of HIV between the two of you and to the baby. Your doctor can do these tests for you in the planning stages and talk you through the various options available to you.

Are there any other tests I need before conceiving?

Yes, you need to be screened for rubella, or German measles. This is in order to ensure that you do not contract the illness during pregnancy as it has a high risk of causing congenital abnormalities in the foetus. If you have not had rubella before then you will need to be vaccinated against it. In this case you should not conceive in the six months following the vaccination, as your immune system may not yet be strong enough.

You will also need to undergo a full gynaecological examination including a pap-smear in order to ensure that you will not require any cervical treatments during pregnancy, as these may impact on the outcome of the pregnancy. You and your partner must have prenatal blood group tests as well.

In addition to this, the father-to-be will have to undergo a thorough examination by a general practitioner in order to ascertain that he is in good health and fit for having a baby.

Do I need to take any nutritional supplements before pregnancy?

Folic acid is particularly important during the time leading up to pregnancy as well as in the early stages of pregnancy itself as it helps the baby's brain and spine to form properly. Every woman trying to conceive needs at least 5mg of folic acid every day. Other vitamins and minerals are also important along with a balanced diet, as this will prepare you in providing a healthy environment for the foetus to grow in. You must consult with your doctor on which nutritional supplements you should be taking and how much.

Do I need to sign up for antenatal classes once I am pregnant?

Antenatal classes are vital when it comes to preparing for birth. These classes provide you with practical information that you will need throughout your pregnancy and when it comes to the birth of your baby. This is also an opportunity to ask the experts any questions that you may have about your pregnancy and the upcoming birth. Furthermore, you will meet other parents-to-be at these classes with whom you can share your joys and concerns. Many people find this to be an important support system during the learning process.

What should I eat during pregnancy and how much?

It is important to remember that every body is different and needs different foods. However, the rule of thumb is to eat nutritious food such as fruit, vegetables, and good quality protein and to take whatever supplements your doctor suggests. This will help to ensure that your baby is healthy during the development process, which sets him or her on the path to good health in the future. It is also important that you eat the right amount during pregnancy, depending on your weight prior to conceiving. A woman of average weight can safely gain between 11kg and 15kg during her pregnancy.

There are certain foods that must be avoided during pregnancy including raw and smoked fish, rare and cured meat, soft cheeses and raw or soft egg yolk. These foods can contain dangerous bacteria and parasites that can be dangerous to your baby.

Remember that you may suddenly dislike or crave certain foods during pregnancy. This is quite normal and your preferences will most probably return to normal after the birth of your child.

Can I smoke or drink during pregnancy?

It is strongly advised that you do not smoke or drink alcohol when pregnant as this can severely damage your baby's health and often results in underweight and learning disabilities. Certain drugs and painkillers can also affect the foetus and it therefore advisable to avoid the use of these unless absolutely necessary and in consultation with your doctor.

How can I stay fit while I'm pregnant?

Unless you have a particular condition preventing you from exercising during pregnancy there are may options available to you. Mild exercise can be highly beneficial for you and your baby. Your doctor may recommend walking, swimming, gentle cycling or yoga and water aerobics.

If you would like to know how GEMS can assist you to obtain more information about any of your healthcare needs, you can contact the GEMS call centre on 0860 00 4367 or send a SMS to 083 450 4367. GEMS will assist you in every way possible to ensure your family's health and well-being.

Sources:

Web MD - www.webmd.com

The Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.com

The March of Dimes - www.marchofdimes.com