diet and lifestyle

• What must a pregnant woman ensure about her diet?

  She must eat a healthy balanced diet
• Why is a healthy balanced diet important for pregnant women?

  It provides nutrients for her and the baby
• What nutrients are vital for a healthy pregnancy?

  • Iron
  • Fibre
  • Protein
  • Carbohydrates
  • Vitamin D
  • Iodine
  • Folic Acid
  • Calcium
  • Vitamin C
  • Fat
• What is the function of carbohydrates during pregnancy?

  They provide a primary source of energy
• How many calories should a pregnant woman consume daily?

  2000 Kcal/day
• How does energy requirement change during pregnancy?

  It increases by 200 calories per trimester
• Why should pregnant women choose wholemeal alternatives?

  To increase fibre in their diet
• What role does protein play during pregnancy?

  It aids growth and repair of the mother's body
• What should vegetarians or vegans consume for protein?

  Soya products, nuts, peas, beans, lentils
• What is the energy content of fat?

  Each gram provides 9 kcal of energy
• Why should pregnant women limit high-fat foods?

  To avoid weight gain and obesity
• What types of fats should pregnant women choose?

  Healthier unsaturated fats and omega-3 fats
• What is the role of omega-3 oils during pregnancy?

  They aid development of baby's eyes and brain
• Why is iron important during pregnancy?

  For fetal development and placenta production
• What can help prevent iron deficiency anemia in pregnant women?

  Iron supplements if deficient
• What is the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for pregnant women?

  10 µg daily
• Why are dark-skinned pregnant women at risk of vitamin D deficiency?

  They may cover their skin
• What is the function of folic acid during pregnancy?

  To help prevent neural tube defects
• What is the recommended daily supplement of folic acid for pregnant women?

  400 micrograms daily
• Why is dietary fibre important during pregnancy?

  It helps prevent constipation
• What is the recommended daily intake of fibre for pregnant women?

  30g of fibre per day
• What is the risk to the baby if the mother has had chicken pox?

  No risk to the baby or mother
• What percentage of mothers likely have antibodies for chicken pox?

  80%
• How does vitamin C aid iron absorption during pregnancy?

  It maximizes absorption when consumed together
• What should a mother do if unsure about chicken pox immunity?

  See a doctor for a blood test
• What is the role of calcium during pregnancy?

  Vital for baby's skeleton and teeth development
• How many portions of dairy foods should a pregnant woman consume?

  Two portions of dairy foods
• What happens if a pregnant woman does not consume enough calcium?

  The baby will leach calcium from her bones
• What is the increased requirement for iodine during pregnancy?

  200 µg during pregnancy
• Why is iodine important during pregnancy?

  It is vital for fetal brain and eye development
• What are the risks to the baby if the mother gets chicken pox before 20 weeks?

  • Before 14 weeks: 0.4% risk of chickenpox syndrome
  • Between 14-20 weeks: 2% risk
  • VZ-Ig treatment reduces risk further
• What happens if the mother's rash develops close to delivery?

  Baby is at risk of overwhelming infection
• What is the risk to the baby between 20 weeks and term?

  No risk to the baby
• What is the risk of chickenpox pneumonia to the mother during pregnancy?

  10% chance of severe pneumonia
• What foods should pregnant women choose for a healthy diet?

  • Starchy carbohydrates (potatoes, bread, rice)
  • Fruits and vegetables (5 a day)
  • Protein sources (beans, fish, eggs)
  • Dairy and alternatives (3 portions a day)
  • Healthy oils and spreads (small amounts)
  • Fluids (8 glasses a day)
• What can happen if a pregnant woman catches toxoplasmosis untreated?

  She could pass the infection to the fetus
• When is the risk of severe symptoms highest for babies infected with toxoplasmosis?

  During the first trimester
• What should pregnant women avoid to prevent excessive weight gain?

  Foods high in fats and sugars
• What supplements are recommended during pregnancy?

  Folic acid and vitamin D
• Why is it rare for women with prior toxoplasmosis to pass the infection to their baby?

  They have built up immunity