How to Care for an Unborn Baby
So you're used to surviving on a can of diet soda and two cookies for lunch, along with several glasses of wine or a couple of mugs of coffee. Now that you have an unborn baby inside of you, you're no longer only harming yourself by eating this way. Caring for an unborn baby can be difficult, but the reward at the end makes it all worthwhile.
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Instructions
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Quit smoking, whether you're addicted or merely prefer to smoke occasionally. Smoking can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature labor and many other problems with your baby.
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Stop using any illegal drugs, and check with your doctor before taking any other drugs.
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Limit your alcohol intake. Although a glass of wine may be beneficial under certain circumstances, drinking alcohol regularly can lead to your baby being born with fetal alcohol syndrome or other birth defects.
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Make an appointment with your obstetrician early in your pregnancy, and go regularly for prenatal appointments according to your doctor's directions.
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Eat a balanced diet full of healthful foods. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables (but wash them first), and make sure to take a prenatal vitamin.
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Eat fish, but limit your consumption to two or three servings a month. Fish often contain high levels of mercury, which can be toxic, but they also contain omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients that are beneficial to your unborn baby.
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Avoid undercooked meats and poultry, unpasteurized milk and cheeses, and soft cheeses like brie and feta.
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Tips & Warnings
You can eat deli or hot dogs if they're heated to steaming before consumption.
Make a list of topics to discuss with your doctor before each appointment, so that you won't forget to ask any of your concerns.
Call your doctor immediately if you have any concerns, including spotting, extreme swelling or cramps.
Do not change your cat's litter box while pregnant.
