Prenatal Care for Women Key nutrients that pregnant women should focus on: 1. Folic Acid Neural Tube Development - It plays a pivotal role in preventing neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, which can occur early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant (consume 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid daily). Dietary Sources - Foods high in folate include leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and fortified cereals, which can help achieve the necessary daily intake. 2. Iron Increased Blood Volume - During pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases significantly, necessitating higher iron intake (approximately 27 mg per day) to support this increase and prevent anemia. 1 Fetal Development - Iron is critical for fetal growth and development; lacking it can lead to low birth weight and developmental complications. 3. Calcium Bone Development - Calcium supports the development of the baby's bones and teeth; pregnant women should aim for approximately 1,000 mg per day, and 1,300 mg if they are teenagers. Dietary Sources - Good sources of calcium include dairy products, fortified orange juice, and leafy greens, which should be included regularly in a pregnant woman's diet. 4. Vitamin D Calcium Absorption - It enhances calcium absorption, crucial for the development of the baby's skeletal system. Immune Function - Sufficient vitamin D levels during pregnancy help regulate the mother's immune response, potentially mitigating the risks of developing gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Gestational Diabetes Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a form of diabetes that typically develops during pregnancy, usually around the 24th week. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs during pregnancy. Causes: The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not entirely understood, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes. The placenta produces hormones that can interfere with the mother's insulin utilization. Insulin resistance may result, causing higher blood glucose levels. Complications: • Maternal Complications: Increased risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia, and future diabetes. Fetal Complications: Potential for excessive birth weight (macrosomia), which may lead to delivery complications; risk of preterm birth; increased chance of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life. Management: Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular checks to maintain blood glucose in a healthy range. Diet and Exercise: Focusing on a balanced diet and physically engaging in moderate exercise can help control blood sugar levels. Medications: In some cases, insulin therapy or other medications may be necessary to manage blood sugar levels effectively. Common Foodborne Illnesses During pregnancy, certain foodborne illnesses pose significant risks not only to the health of the mother but also to the developing fetus. The immune system undergoes changes during pregnancy, making pregnant women more susceptible to infections. Here are three common foodborne pathogens that are dangerous during pregnancy: 1. Listeria A bacteria commonly found in contaminated foods such as unpasteurized dairy products, soft cheeses, deli meats, and improperly cooked poultry. It can lead to severe complications during pregnancy, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in the newborn, such as meningitis. 2. Salmonella A bacteria typically transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, unpasteurized milk, or contaminated produce. It usually causes gastrointestinal distress like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal cramps, it can also cause bacteremia (blood infections), which may be more dangerous in pregnant women due to their altered immune state. 3. Toxoplasmosis A parasite typically transmitted through undercooked or contaminated meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, or contact with infected cat feces. Many people with toxoplasmosis have no symptoms, but in pregnancy, it can cause convulsions, visual issues, intellectual difficulties, or even death.