Your baby…
You…
As pregnancy progresses, you may feel hungrier – but watch the temptation to fill up on ‘empty’ calories – see our tips for healthy snacks. You may start thinking about those first few moments after your baby is born…
The early days of breastfeeding matter. You can be sure of getting off to a good start if you bear these key points in mind:
You don’t have to eat a green leafy vegetable every time you feel peckish, but opting for a wise choice will be good for your baby, and for you.
If you feel like a nibble………try
Check in with your dentist as soon as you can. Your gums, together with the other soft tissues in your body, are made even softer by pregnancy hormones. You may notice some bleeding when you brush. Even so, keeping your teeth clean is key to preventing more serious problems. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush, and use a toothpaste suitable for tender gums if they’re bothering you (your dentist can advise). Frequent sugary foods, drinks and snacks may increase problems. Some women develop gum infections during pregnancy, and these will need treating as soon as possible.
Always let your dentist know you are pregnant – that way you won’t be given X-rays or mercury fillings which are not recommended during pregnancy.
Some pregnant women are prone to cystitis, a bacterial infection in the bladder which needs medical treatment – you’ll usually know have it because there is a burning sensation when you urinate. You can help avoid cystitis by ‘flushing out’ any bacteria in your bladder with plenty of clear fluids. You could also try cranberry juice, which helps prevent the bacteria that cause the infection taking hold.
