Health Education

Comprehensive guide for maternal and child health, providing essential information for a healthy pregnancy journey and beyond.

Pregnancy Care Guide

Prenatal Care

Regular prenatal care is crucial for a healthy pregnancy:

  • First visit: 8 weeks of pregnancy
  • Monthly visits until 28 weeks
  • Bi-weekly visits from 28-36 weeks
  • Weekly visits from 36 weeks until delivery
  • Regular blood pressure and weight monitoring
  • Fetal heart rate monitoring
  • Ultrasound scans at key milestones

Common Symptoms

Understanding and managing pregnancy symptoms:

  • Morning sickness (nausea and vomiting)
  • Fatigue and sleep changes
  • Breast tenderness and changes
  • Frequent urination
  • Mood swings and emotional changes
  • Back pain and body aches
  • Swelling in feet and ankles

Emergency Warning Signs

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Nutrition Guide

Essential Nutrients

  • Folic Acid: 400-800 mcg daily
  • Iron: 27 mg daily
  • Calcium: 1,000 mg daily
  • Protein: 75-100 grams daily
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Vitamin D: 600 IU daily

Foods to Include

  • Leafy green vegetables
  • Lean proteins (fish, poultry)
  • Whole grains
  • Dairy products
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Healthy fats (avocados, nuts)

Foods to Avoid

  • Raw or undercooked meat
  • Unpasteurized dairy
  • Raw fish and shellfish
  • High-mercury fish
  • Raw eggs
  • Unwashed produce

Exercise Guidelines

Safe Exercises

Recommended activities during pregnancy:

  • Walking (30 minutes daily)
  • Swimming
  • Prenatal yoga
  • Low-impact aerobics
  • Stationary cycling
  • Light strength training

Exercise Safety Tips

  • Stay hydrated
  • Wear comfortable clothing
  • Exercise in moderate temperatures
  • Listen to your body
  • Avoid high-impact activities
  • Stop if you feel pain or discomfort

Newborn Care Essentials

Feeding

Essential feeding guidelines:

  • Breastfeed every 2-3 hours
  • Watch for hunger cues
  • Ensure proper latch
  • Burp after feeding
  • Monitor weight gain
  • Stay hydrated

Sleep Safety

Safe sleep practices:

  • Place baby on back to sleep
  • Use firm sleep surface
  • Keep crib free of soft objects
  • Room share, not bed share
  • Maintain comfortable temperature
  • Avoid overheating

Postpartum Recovery

Physical Recovery

  • Rest when baby sleeps
  • Stay hydrated
  • Eat nutritious meals
  • Take prescribed medications
  • Practice gentle exercises
  • Attend follow-up appointments

Emotional Well-being

  • Accept help from others
  • Join support groups
  • Practice self-care
  • Communicate with partner
  • Monitor for postpartum depression
  • Maintain social connections