Beware of gaining too much/not gaining enough weight!
Gaining too much weight during a pregnancy will make you susceptible to pregnancy induced hypertension. However, recent trends have been seeing mothers-to-be that are too slim. It is said that not gaining enough weight will result in not only a smaller infant but also makes you susceptible to lifestyle related diseases. In any case, weight control during gestation is very important.
How much weight gain is normal during pregnancy?
The weight a pregnant woman gains until birth mostly consists of the weight of the infant (fetus), placenta, amniotic fluid and blood. A newborn's average weight is approximately 3 kilograms. It is said that a mother-to-be's body stores up necessary nutrients for birth and breastfeeding during pregnancy as well. In recent time, weight gain calculated according to each individual's pre-pregnancy weight seems to be the most ideal.
IMPORTANT KNOWLEDGE FOR MOTHERS
Learn how your body adjusts its functions during this time and how your habits and actions can affect it.
Everyday life with pregnancy
There will be many surprising changes in your body during pregnancy. There are a few things that you may have been unconcerned about before your pregnancy that should be of more concern when you are pregnant.
Posture/Actions
As your baby grows within your belly, your center of gravity will shift forward. This cause many individuals to lean back more than before. Be aware of your posture and actions to prevent back pain during pregnancy.
Standing
Getting up from lying down
Stand straight with both feet apart. Relax your shoulders and open up your chest, just like when you would stand to attention.
Sitting on the floor
Sitting cross-legged on the floor is a posture that limbers hip joints. It is better to use a cushion for your back.
Always turn to your side before attempting to get up. Then, put both hands on the floor and push up your upper body before the rest of your body.
Climbing Stairs
Take it slow going up or down, always holding the handrail and making sure of each step.
A mother-to-be is connected to her baby by an umbilical cord. When a pregnant woman smokes, carbon monoxide and toxic substances are carried through the umbilical cord and absorbed by the baby. Alcohol also passes through and is absorbed when there is alcohol intake. Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol during your pregnancy. what's more, caffeine found in coffee, green tea and black tea has a vasoconstrictive effect on circulation. It is better to restrict caffeine intake to one or two cups of coffee or tea a day.
Smoking/Drinking/Caffeine
Consult your doctor on medicine intake during weeks four to seven of your pregnancy, as the baby's major organs are formed during this period.
Please remember this is based on the Guidelines and Instruction for Maternal and Child Health in Japan.
Medicine
Some pregnant women find it impossible to brush their teeth because of the nausea that comes from morning sickness. This makes one more susceptible to cavities and gingivitis. If you are planning on receiving treatment for your teeth, the fourth to seventh month of pregnancy should be the best times to do so. Bacteria from periodontal disease may pass through blood and be carried to the uterus and placenta. Although rare, it is said to hold a possibility of triggering premature birth. In any case, everyday oral care is very important.
Treatment of aliments
such as cavities
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Going away on a trip during the stable period of a pregnancy can be relaxing. Make sure to plan out a reasonable schedule for your trip. Enjoy yourself, but do not forget to check medical facilities in the area beforehand, and watch what you eat. Transportation by plane should be avoided in the early weeks and at the the end of pregnancy.