Studies show that at least 15% of pregnant women suffer a miscarriage. However, this could be considered an underestimation since miscarriages were not recognized. In most cases, pregnancy loss is due to chromosomal abnormalities, which can go as high as 70% in the first 20 weeks.
Miscarriage is due to several causes- obesity, medical issues, hypertension, and advancing age, no name a few. And while these things may be out of your control, there are helpful ways to reduce the risk of infant death, stillbirth, and miscarriage. Take note of these tips to manage your risks and improve your health during pregnancy.
Always Wash Your Hands
Infections cause many miscarriages. And the best way to avoid this from happening to you is by washing your hands diligently. Practice good hygiene and ensure to distance yourself from sick people. Here’s how to keep your hands clean:
- Wash before and after eating.
- Clean after using the restroom.
- Wash after being around someone sick.
- Wash your hands after touching money, shopping carts, or doorknobs.
Quit Smoking and Avoid Alcohol
Smoking is hazardous to health. It’s one of the primary reasons why the risk of miscarriage increases along with other health conditions like high blood pressure, cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
Women who frequently smoke are at high risk of miscarriage and infertility, preterm delivery, and low birth weight baby. Infants born by smokers are also at higher risk of SIDS or sudden infant death syndrome. As a parent, losing a child can be extremely difficult. Some parents who lost their child to SIDS had to go through bereavement programs from hospice care centers to cope with loss.
Quitting cigarettes will not only save your baby’s life but will also ensure that you’re healthy enough to take care of your child in the years to come.
Many doctors advise avoiding alcohol during pregnancy as it significantly increases the risk of miscarriage. The alcohol recommendation for pregnant women may differ. However, it’s still safer to avoid drinking it in the meantime.
Food Safety
The risk of miscarriage also increases due to food-borne illnesses. And even though pregnant women are often advised to stay away from foods containing harmful bacteria, such as unpasteurized cheese or undercooked meats, there are other sources of bacteria.
Safe food handling is critical for pregnant women or those trying to get pregnant. Here are some methods to follow when handling food in the kitchen:
- Make sure to wash your hands before and after touching raw foods.
- Cook fish, meat, and eggs accordingly.
- Put leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Cook fish or meat right after purchase. Limit storing them in the freezer in one to two days.
- Wash vegetables and fruits before consumption.
Consider Getting Flu Shot
Many women are afraid of getting the flu shot, especially during pregnancy. Some even think that flu shots can cause miscarriage- which is a common misconception. Studies show that flu shots are not harmful to pregnant women, and it doesn’t put them at risk of miscarriage.
Talk to your doctor about the best flu shot to have to secure a safe and healthy pregnancy journey. Remember that at this point, you’re not just taking care of yourself but a tiny human being inside you as well.
Lose a Few Pounds Before Conceiving
Obesity has been linked to various health issues. It’s been associated with diabetes, some types of cancer, and heart disease. What’s even bothersome is that obesity is also one of the primary contributors to miscarriage and other pregnancy complications like premature birth.
The accurate relationship of obesity with miscarriage is still vague. But one thing’s for sure, all studies about their connection lead to one conclusion: “Obese women are at higher risk of pregnancy loss.”
Eat Nutritious Meals
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of eating nutritious meals during pregnancy. Eating a healthy diet is recommended to everyone. According to the experts, pregnant women who eat fruits, whole grains, and vegetables have a lower risk of complications. Moreover, a healthy diet is also linked to proper weight control and regulating blood sugar, vital for pregnant women.
Don’t Skip Prenatal Care
Prenatal care ensures that you and your baby are both healthy throughout your pregnancy. If you haven’t begun prenatal care yet, you must immediately. A routine physical health exam with your doctor or midwife may reveal underlying health problems or complications that can harm your unborn child.
Prenatal care is not just about ensuring your safety. It’s also vital to help you deliver the baby safely as it will teach you the dos and don’ts during pregnancy.
The safest way to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy is by committing yourself to your doctor’s advice. Make sure to take your vitamins and keep track of your weight.
