In addition to personal health habits, there are some important steps you can take to ensure that your environment is a healthy one, too. Follow your local Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines for advice, but you may also consider the following good hygiene practices.
Eat Healthily
Which foods and drinks should I avoid during pregnancy?
Try not to eat liver, undercooked meat or egg, and soft and unpasteurised dairy products. Limit oily fish, caffeine and alcohol.
How can I maintain a healthy diet?
A healthy diet includes drinking plenty of water and eating the recommended daily servings from the different food groups: proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Prevent Infection
How can I avoid picking up an infection during pregnancy?
Wash your hands often with soap and water and avoid certain foods and pets. Talk to your doctor about which vaccinations you should have. Avoiding people with an infection is also important.
Exercise
Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?
If you weren't active before you got pregnant, don’t suddenly take up strenuous exercise. However, the more active and fit you are during pregnancy, the easier it will be for you to adapt to your changing shape and weight gain. Always check with your doctor before beginning any kind of exercise during pregnancy.
What are the benefits of exercising during pregnancy?
Exercise can help lessen the aches and pains of pregnancy, increase the likelihood of early recovery after delivery, improve your ability to sleep, prevent excessive weight gain and keep you healthy.
How hard should I exercise?
Don’t exhaust yourself. You may need to slow down as your pregnancy progresses or if your doctor or midwife advises you to. As a general rule, you should be able to hold a conversation as you exercise.