Health and diet during pregnancy

If you are planning a pregnancy you can improve your chances of conceiving by being as fit and healthy as possible. If you are already pregnant, your midwife will be able to offer information and resources to support your general health to give you and your baby the best start. 

You can make improvements to your lifestyle by looking at your diet and how much exercise you do:

• Eating well
  Eating a healthy and well balanced diet will help your baby to grow and develop. You do not need to have a special diet, but it is important to eat a varied diet to have the right nutrients for you and your baby. The NHS provide a list of foods to avoid in pregnancy. It is recommended to take folic acid when you are planning to get pregnant and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
  
  
• Vitamin D 
  It is recommended you should take vitamin D to help keep your bones healthy and prevent your baby's bones becoming curved. Vitamin D also helps to strengthen your immune system.
  
  
• Being active
  Being active and exercising such as walking and swimming during your pregnancy can help reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure and other pregnancy related conditions such as pre-eclampsia.
  
  
• Stop smoking
  Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for you and your baby's health. If you need help to stop smoking please speak with your midwife and they will be able to support you.
  
  
• Alcohol
  The NHS advises that if you are pregnant you should avoid all alcohol. Your midwife will be able to give you more information if required.