Nutrition

Diet is an important part of a successful pregnancy. Weight gain is to be expected, 25-35 pounds on average. Much individual variation exists, however. What really matters is that you eat well, get a regular amount of low impact exercise, and do not diet. You will need about 300 extra calories a day while you are pregnant.

We will provide you with a prescription for prenatal vitamins which you should take every day. These are available in chewable form, if desired. Take your vitamins during your pregnancy, for 6 weeks postpartum, and for as long as you are breastfeeding.

Pregnant women should get most of their calories from the five largest food groups of the pyramid. These five groups will provide you with the vitamins and minerals that you and your baby need to be healthy. It is important to keep variety in your diet. It will ensure that you get all that you need and not too much of something you don’t need.

The most important item to remember about nutrition is that you need 2 liters of water every day. Limit caffeinated beverages and soda.

Foods to Avoid

During pregnancy you need to avoid some foods because of an increased risk to the baby.

Because of the risk to the baby of infection with a bacteria called listeriosis you should avoid:

• Unpasteurized milk or soft cheeses
• Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, or seafood
• Prepared meats, such as hot dogs or deli meats, unless they are reheated until steaming hot

Because of the risk to the baby of mercury exposure you should avoid:

• Shark, swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel
• No more than 12 oz per week of seafood or shellfish including canned light tuna
• No more than 6 oz per week of fish that is locally caught freshwater fish, tuna steaks, or canned albacore tuna

Dental Health

Getting your teeth regularly cleaned, as well as having any other necessary dental work done, during your pregnancy is recommended. Routine x-rays should be deferred until after delivery. A letter for your dentist with information on approved pain medications and antibiotics is available upon request.

Exercise / Activity

Exercise is good. It can help you feel better during your pregnancy by reducing problems with swelling, back pain, and decreased energy. Being fit also helps you get through labor more easily. Being overweight can increase your risk of gestational diabetes as well.

If you are already involved in a regular exercise program, or you would like to start an exercise program, talk to us about it at your next visit. If your pregnancy is uncomplicated, most gentle aerobic exercise is fine. There are many safe activities and many specific prenatal exercise classes available. Just ask us.

You should definitely avoid contact sports or other sports that increase the risk of trauma to you such as rock climbing, horseback riding, downhill skiing, etc. after the first trimester. As your pregnancy progresses, you will find that your center of gravity will change causing you to be more prone to falls. Because of this, you may need to limit activities requiring good balance like biking, tennis, etc. SCUBA diving should be avoided completely during pregnancy secondary to fetal intolerance of the pressure changes involved. You should also avoid anaerobic exercise.