Beware of these things during pregnancy

Anaemia is characterised by a low level of a substance called haemoglobin in red blood cells.During pregnancy anaemia is quite common because the demands for iron change. Routine bloodtests are carried out during pregnancy to check if women need iron supplements. It is important that pregnant womeneat an iron-rich dietas the production of red blood cells increases for it stransport to the foetus and placenta. Iron rich foods include red meats, fortified breakfast cereals,dried fruits, pulses and bread.

Antacid A substance which counteracts stomach acidity that is used as atreatment for heartburn in pregnant women. Heartburn occursas a result of increased abdominal pressure, relaxation of thegastro-oesophageal sphincter due to pregnancy hormonesand altered gastrointestinal function.2Symptoms areoften exacerbated by lying down, or by certain foods,particularly those that are spicy, fatty, fizzy or acidic.Symptoms will often be less severe with small frequentmeals and snacks rather than larger meals. Also avoideating just before bedtime and spicy or fatty foods andtry to limit the use of antacids.

Antenatal care Antenatal care means ‘care before birth’. Antenatal care aimsto monitor and promote the wellbeing of a mother and herdeveloping baby. Midwives and doctors provide information,advice and reassurance as well as monitoring, screening andtreatment where necessary. 

Aspirin is generally not considered safe to take during pregnancyas regular use may cause problems for both you and your baby. If you are taking aspirin before pregnancy for a specific medical condition then you should speak to your GP or midwife as early as possible for adviceon whether this should continue. Complications include miscarriage, effects on fetal growth,bleeding problems for you or the baby and heart or lung related problems in a newborn baby.However, there are certain situations where a doctor may advise a low dose of aspirin during pregnancy. Remember to always follow your doctor’s advice. 

Back pain experienced by pregnant women is caused by the ligaments between the pelvic boness oftening and joints loosening in preparation for the baby’s passage through the pelvis. Thismovement can cause considerable discomfort on either side of the lower back, often with walking,and especially when going up and down stairs. During the second trimester, the uterus becomesheavier and changes the woman’s centre of gravity. Gradually - and perhaps without being awareof it - women begin to adjust their posture and the way in which they move. These compensations can result in back pain, strain or other injury. The separation of the muscles along the front ofthe abdomen during pregnancy may also contribute to back pain during pregnancy. These twoparallel sheets of muscles run from the rib cage to the pubic bone. As the uterus expands, theysometimes separate along the centre seam, which can make back pain worse. Careful lifting andcarrying during pregnancy are important to prevent injury.