The First Trimester - Precautions, Do's and Don'ts | Dr Anjali Kumar | Maitri

Recent questions

• What are the key considerations during the first trimester of pregnancy?

  During the first trimester of pregnancy, which lasts up to 13 weeks from the first day of the last menstrual period, it is crucial to focus on avoiding uncontrolled medical conditions, making correct dietary choices, and refraining from unsupervised medications to prevent birth defects and abortions. It is recommended to visit a doctor for a detailed history, examination, blood tests, and folic acid supplementation, start folic acid at 5mg per day, control chronic medical conditions, stop smoking and alcohol intake, limit caffeine to 200mg per day, avoid self-medication, and prevent toxoplasmosis from cat litter.

• How can one take care of themselves during the first trimester of pregnancy?

  To take care of yourself during the first trimester of pregnancy, it is essential to focus on various aspects such as diet, medical supervision, and lifestyle choices. It is recommended to consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, cook animal protein thoroughly to avoid salmonella and listeria, wash fruits and vegetables before eating, manage nausea and vomiting with small frequent meals, ginger, and antacids, address constipation with fiber and liquids, and stay physically active. Additionally, visiting a doctor for regular check-ups, blood tests, and folic acid supplementation is crucial, along with controlling chronic medical conditions, avoiding smoking and alcohol, limiting caffeine intake, and preventing toxoplasmosis from cat litter.

• What are common symptoms experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy?

  Common symptoms experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy include nausea, vomiting, acidity, heartburn, fatigue, tender breasts, skin changes, and backache. These symptoms are typical during the initial stages of pregnancy and usually resolve by the end of the trimester. Weight gain typically starts in the fourth or fifth month of pregnancy, and it is important to address these symptoms with proper care and attention to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

• How important is folic acid supplementation during the first trimester of pregnancy?

  Folic acid supplementation is crucial during the first trimester of pregnancy as it plays a significant role in preventing birth defects and ensuring the proper development of the baby's major body parts. Starting folic acid at 5mg per day, as recommended, can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the baby. It is essential to follow medical advice and guidelines regarding folic acid supplementation to support a healthy pregnancy and the overall well-being of both the mother and the baby.

• What dietary recommendations should be followed during the first trimester of pregnancy?

  During the first trimester of pregnancy, it is important to follow specific dietary recommendations to support the health and development of the baby. Consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables, cooking animal protein thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses, washing fruits and vegetables before eating, managing nausea and vomiting with small frequent meals, ginger, and antacids, addressing constipation with fiber and liquids, and staying physically active are key aspects of a healthy diet during this period. These dietary choices can help ensure proper nutrition for both the mother and the baby, promoting a healthy pregnancy and overall well-being.