Circle of Life Women's Center OBGYN Ogden, UT

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Circle of Life Women's Center has established this website for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice of a health care provider. Proper diagnosis & treatment for a patient may vary depending on individual circumstances. All patients are encouraged to consult with their physician regarding any and all medical conditions.

Your Health During Pregnancy

Exercise

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists(ACOG) recommends exercising at least 30 minutes a day. If you did not exercise on a regular basis before pregnancy then you should talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
Regular exercise during pregnancy can benefit you in the following ways:

Helps reduce backaches, constipation, bloating, and swelling
May help prevent or treat gestational diabetes
Increases your energy
Improves your mood
Improves your posture
Promotes muscle tone, strength, and endurance
Helps you sleep better

See full ACOG article: http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp119.cfm

Diet

A balanced diet is a basic part of good health at all times in your life. During pregnancy, your diet is even more important. The foods you eat are the main source of nutrients for your baby. Healthy eating will be a major benefit for you and your baby.

See full ACOG article: http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp001.cfm

Smoking

Numerous studies have shown that smoking while pregnant is harmful to both baby and mother. The numerous poisons you inhale while smoking are carried through your bloodstream directly to your baby. Smoking while pregnant can contribute to the following:

Miscarriage
Ectopic pregnancy
Vaginal bleeding
Fetal brain damage
Growth retardation and low birth weight
Abnormal infant blood pressure
Mental retardation
Respiratory disorders during childhood
Learning and developmental problems
...and many more

More information from ACOG on Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs during pregnancy: http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp170.cfm

Alcohol

It is strongly recommended that women do not drink alcohol while pregnant. Using alcohol while pregnant is the leading known cause of mental retardation according to ACOG. Women should avoid drinking alcohol entirely while pregnant or trying to conceive.

More information from ACOG on Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs during pregnancy: http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp170.cfm