Health and Wellbeing During Pregnancy

Choosing to start a family or make another addition to your family is a life changing decision. Sometimes babies are planned and other times pregnancy comes unexpectedly. Whatever your situation, it is a good idea to make sure you are fit and healthy for the duration of your pregnancy and to prepare your body for labour.

We offer free referrals to smoking cessation services and support women who want to reach a healthier weight during pregnancy by working with colleagues in dietetics and the community for physical activity guidance.

Stop Smoking

Stop Smoking This is one of the most important things you can do to help you have a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications such as low birth weight and placental problems which significantly reduce your chance of a normal birth. Your midwife and GP will be able to support you to cut down or quit. Please click here for more information on help to stop smoking.

Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle at any time, but is especially vital if you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Eating healthily during pregnancy will help your baby to develop and grow.  NHS choices has some top tips for a healthy diet during pregnancy:

• Healthy diet
• Foods to avoid
• Alcohol
• Vitamins & supplements

Keeping Fit

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. It will also help you to cope with labour and get back into shape after the birth. Keep up your normal daily physical activity or exercise (sport, running, yoga, dancing, or even walking to the shops and back) for as long as you feel comfortable.

Exercise is not dangerous for your baby – there is some evidence that active women are less likely to experience problems in later pregnancy and labour. Please click here for more advice on how to stay fit and for some useful tips and tricks.