Optimising your pregnancy chances

Miscarriages are common in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Unfortunately, they are unpreventable. There are many factors that could lead to a miscarriage, such as chromosomal abnormalities and fetus development issues. However, there are ways we can adopt to have a healthy and positive pregnancy.

Maintain a healthy weight

Having an unhealthy weight such as being overweight, obese, or underweight, may cause an increased risk in complications during pregnancy. Also, obesity increases the risk of miscarriages. If you are trying to conceive, be it naturally or with IVF, it is best to reach a healthy weight before you become pregnant so that you and your baby’s health are guarded.

Protect yourself against infections

Maintaining good personal hygiene is the key to avoid catching common illnesses such as flu. It is also important to have up-to-date immunisation or vaccination to prevent against possible infections. You may check with your doctor if there is any other immunisation you might need during pregnancy.

Besides immunisation, expectant mothers should avoid consuming unpasteurized milk and cheese, raw or undercooked meat, fish and eggs. This is because these foods may contain harmful bacteria that can increase the risk for miscarriage.

Manage chronic conditions

Chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes may affect the health of both the mother and baby. As such, it is important to manage them in order to have a healthy pregnancy.

Lead a healthy lifestyle

Having a healthy lifestyle can lead you towards a healthy pregnancy. You do not need to make big lifestyle changes. It could be as simple as getting adequate sleep and eating well-balanced diet. Besides eating and sleeping well, it is also important to avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking, second-hand smoke and alcohol consumption.