In an ideal situation, women should consult their doctors before they even fall pregnant.

Not all pregnant women are healthy and free of medical conditions and doctors can identify any risk factors that could complicate the pregnancy. These can then be monitored and corrected, if need be, during the pregnancy.

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Once a woman is pregnant, her first visit to the doctor should be early in the pregnancy and be followed by regular check-ups as advised by the doctor.

This regular contact allows the baby’s development, the mother’s health and nutritional status, and the development of any new risk factors to be checked and monitored.

Blood pressure and diabetes
This is also important as conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes may develop during pregnancy and could be life-threatening if not recognised and treated early.

Dietary advice can also be given early and a nutritional plan could be devised in conjunction with the doctor or dietician, if required. This may be useful if a person has special religious or dietary considerations, financial restrictions affecting their diet, or any questions or beliefs about certain foods that may need explanation.

So, if you are planning to fall pregnant, or are already pregnant, do not hesitate to see your doctor.

- Information supplied by Medi-Clinic
 

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