The first 12 weeks of pregnancy, or the early stages, are the most sensitive and critical period for expectant mothers. During this time, your lifestyle, diet, and habits directly affect both your health and your baby's development.
Foods that should not be consumed
• Smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited.
• Raw or undercooked meat, fish, and raw meatballs should not be consumed. (They carry a risk of infection.)
• Salads and greens must be washed thoroughly.
• Foods high in estrogen, such as sage and dates, are not recommended.
Travel Security
• Avoid long car journeys. If you must, take a break every 1-1.5 hours and go for a short walk.
• Air travel is safer for long-distance journeys.
• Short trips of 2-3 hours are possible.
Entering the sea and swimming pools
• There is generally no harm in swimming in the sea.
• Not recommended due to hygiene risks associated with swimming pools.
Fluid Consumption
• Drink 2-3 liters of water per day.
• Tea and coffee are not substitutes for water and should not be consumed excessively. (Maximum 2 cups.)
• Acidic and sugary drinks should be avoided.
• You can drink 1-2 bottles of natural mineral water per day.
The Effects of Harmful Habits
• Alcohol: It negatively affects the baby's development and can cause fetal alcohol syndrome.
• Cigarette: It increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.
Bleeding and Discharge
• Brown, red, or black spots are common, often not serious, but should always be reported to a doctor.
• If Rh incompatibility is present, an Rh incompatibility injection should be administered in case of bleeding.
• Discharge of varying colors may be normal, but it should be evaluated for infection if it has a foul odor, pain, or itching.
Sexual intercourse
• Sexual intercourse is not prohibited if there is no bleeding or infection.
• In risky situations, your doctor may recommend restricting sexual intercourse.
Nausea and Vomiting
• Morning sickness is common in the first weeks of pregnancy and usually subsides between weeks 12 and 14.
• For severe nausea, safe medications can be used under the supervision of a doctor.
• Hospitalization may be necessary in cases of severe fluid loss.
Weight Gain
• Gaining 10-12 kilograms throughout pregnancy is ideal.
• A weight gain of 1 kilogram per month in the first half of the year and 2 kilograms per month in the second half of the year is normal.
Sports and Exercise
• Daily 45-minute light walks are very beneficial.
• Prenatal yoga or pilates can be done after weeks 12-14.
• Sports involving equipment are not recommended.
• Swimming under suitable conditions is beneficial.
Frequency of Control
• Check-ups are done every 2-3 weeks during the first 12 weeks.
• A double test and detailed ultrasound are performed between weeks 11-13.
• In the subsequent period, controls will become increasingly frequent.
What should be considered in working life?
• Get up and take short walks every 45 minutes.
• Avoid lifting heavy loads, and when bending down, bend your knees and squat down.
• Drink plenty of water and pay attention to toilet hygiene.
• Stress should be avoided as much as possible.
When can we tell the baby's gender?
• 12. haftadaki ultrason ile %75-80 oranında cinsiyet görülebilir.
• It will be finalized in the coming weeks.
Conclusion
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits in early pregnancy is critical for both the mother's and baby's health. Regular check-ups and following your doctor's recommendations will ensure a healthy pregnancy.
