Pregnancy 101: The dos and don’ts for expecting parents  

If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, congratulations! This is such an exciting time. We hope you’re savoring every precious moment… without stressing too much. But first, a reality check.

According to Prince George’s County health data, only about 6 in 10 mothers receive early prenatal care, and the maternal mortality rate is twice the national average. Luminis Health is committed to improving maternal health by expanding services, advancing health equity, and eliminating disparities. 

We’re here to help you with expert advice to help you maintain a healthy pregnancy and safeguard your baby before and after delivery. Here are some dos and don’ts: 

Pregnancy dos

Since every pregnancy is unique, your doctor will always have the best answers for you. But generally, it’s important to remember to:

• Eat well. A healthy, well-balanced diet will fuel your baby’s growth. Make sure to add seafood, especially fish high in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Exercise regularly. You don’t need a gym to stay active, there are plenty of ways to move your body at home. Try gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility or follow an online prenatal yoga video to ease stress and promote relaxation. Even simple activities like walking around your home, doing light bodyweight exercises, or practicing deep breathing techniques can help keep you active and feeling your best during pregnancy.
• Get plenty of sleep. It’s common to feel tired when you’re pregnant, and it can be hard to get comfortable with your growing bump. But sleep is essential for mother and baby (7-9 hours each night is best).
• Get your flu shot and other recommended vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control recommend certain vaccinations during pregnancy to help mothers develop antibodies that can be passed on to their babies, providing protection during the first few months of life. For example, the flu shot is safe and will protect you and your baby. The RSV vaccine is now recommended between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, particularly during RSV season (September thru January).
• Go to all your prenatal appointments. Pregnancy care is key to keeping your baby healthy. Consider joining CenteringPregnancy,^® a new program offered at Luminis Health Ob-Gyn Greenbelt. With group sessions for expectant mothers and personalized consultations with trusted OB-GYNs and midwives, this nationally recognized program has been shown to improve birth outcomes, breastfeeding rates and patient satisfaction for new moms.
• Limit stress and maintain your mental well-being. When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes, all of which can affect your mental health. Any steps you can take to feel connected, grounded and centered will go a long way toward ensuring a healthy pregnancy.  
• Take a prenatal vitamin. Ask for doctor recommendations and look for a vitamin that includes folic acid and iron if needed.  
• Travel safely. Your doctor will help you make informed decisions about traveling, including telling you when it’s best to stop traveling (usually by 36 weeks).   

Pregnancy don’ts

To protect your health and your growing baby, there are a few things you should avoid during pregnancy, including:

• Dangerous chemicals, including some household cleaners, and refrain from cleaning cat litter boxes
• Foods that increase the risk of foodborne illness, including deli meats, raw or processed meats, and unpasteurized milk and cheese
• Excess caffeine (one cup of coffee a day is usually safe)
• Hot tubs and saunas
• Radiation exposure, including X-rays, unless absolutely necessary
• Alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs

Taking these steps can help you lower your risk of complications and prepare for a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery.

Get started at the Luminis Health Community Baby Shower

As part of our 50^th anniversary celebrations, Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center is hosting a Community Baby Shower on Saturday, April 12, from noon to 4 pm, at our Lanham campus. The event is designed to empower expectant and new parents, as well as their loved ones by providing support and resources to guide them through pregnancy.
During the free celebration, you can:

• Explore services and shop for baby essentials from local vendors
• Participate in expert-led panel discussions on important pregnancy topics like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, postpartum depression, nutrition, lactation and more
• Enter to win diaper and baby gear giveaways

I am proud to speak on one of the panels and hope to meet you there. Together, we can keep your baby healthy and safe—and celebrate your family’s next chapter.

Authors

 Dr. Jonelle Samuel, a Luminis Health Ob-Gyn, is a Prince George’s County native and practices in Greenbelt.