Exercise

Exercise or activity can help you feel and look great! It can prepare you for labour, delivery and a faster recovery. Check with your doctor before beginning or continuing an exercise program. Here are a few guidelines for exercise in pregnancy:

• If you have not been active, walking is a great place to begin. Start any new exercise slowly and gradually increase the intensity and time.
  Other good activities are swimming, bicycling or exercise classes for pregnant women.
• Take rests often. Do not push yourself.
• Drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise.
• Have a light snack and drink 15 to 30 minutes before exercising. Do not exercise on an empty stomach.
• After the fourth month, avoid exercise laying on your back.
• To prevent overheating, do not exercise when it is hot or very humid.

Smoking

Cigarette smoke cuts down the amount of oxygen and nutrients passed to your baby.

• The babies of women who smoke during pregnancy are usually smaller and more likely to get sick than babies of non-smokers.
• If you smoke, you should quit or at least cut down during pregnancy.
• Try to avoid second-hand smoke.

Alcohol

There is no safe level of alcohol in pregnancy. Pregnant women should not drink any alcohol. Choose milk, fruit juices, or non-alcoholic drinks instead.

Drugs and Medications

There are many drugs which, if taken during pregnancy, may seriously affect the health of your baby. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any drugs, medications or home remedies.