12 steps for a healthy pregnancy

12 steps for a healthy pregnancy
Tips to look after your baby on the way

Taking care of yourself is the best thing you can do for your unborn baby.

Dr Avron Urison
Dr Avron Urison - CEO: HealthCare Plan
23 March 2021 | 1 minute read
Legal You Q1 2021 Website Article Banners 1920 X 45711
  1. Take a prenatal vitamin – speak to your healthcare provider for the correct combination. Folic acid and iron are the most important supplements to take. Additional vitamins to take include omega 3, calcium, vitamin D and magnesium. These can most commonly be bought as multivitamin combinations often marked for pregnancy.
  2. Exercise regularly – but don’t overdo it. Generally perform exercise that your body can tolerate without being excessive or performing heavy impact options. Stretching and flexibility are very important to maintain during pregnancy.
  3. Educate yourself – ensure that you get information from credible sources, namely your doctor, antenatal classes and other professionals.
  4. Change your chores - avoid harsh or toxic cleaners or heavy lifting.
  5. Track your weight gain - normal weight gain is 10 – 15 kilograms. In general 1 to 1.5 kg’s in the first 3 months and then 1.5 to 2 kg’s each month thereafter until you give birth.
  6. Drink plenty of fluids - six glasses of water per day.
  7. Don’t drink alcohol – this could have harmful side effects on your baby. Foetal alcohol syndrome is a condition in a child that results from alcohol exposure during the mother’s pregnancy. This causes brain damage and other growth problems in the child.
  8. Know when to call your doctor with concerns, regarding both the mother and the baby. If in doubt, rather call to confirm your concerns.
  9. Don’t smoke. Avoid second hand smoke as well. This raises the risks of your baby being born with birth defects.
  10. Get enough sleep – rest is important for a healthy pregnancy.
  11. Don’t take over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies without medical consultation.
  12. Take a pregnancy class – this is important for education and to share your worries and concerns. This will take the form of a number of sessions through your pregnancy with both theory and practicals outlining key aspects of your pregnancy, your baby and the birth process.  

With Legal&Tax you're not alone

Legal&Tax is your companion in looking after your family, including the unborn members.

Recommended articles
LT 02072025 Feature Image Mandela

LEGAL&YOU JULY 2025

He fought for justice. You paid for protection. Now use it — to defend your family, future, and finances. Protect what you love & fight for what matters
Article
LT July Feature Image Tax Season

Tax Season Made Simple

Filing your tax return doesn’t have to be stressful. Let Legal&Tax handle it — fast, secure, and affordable support. 
Article
LT July Feature Image Legal

Justice for All

Mandela believed in justice for all. Here's how your legal plan helps you get help when you need it.
Article
View our other information hubs