Prenatal Care

Caring for a Pregnant Mother's Health

• Diet: A pregnant mother's diet should be rich in iron to prevent anemia. Ginger water can help with bloating and promote milk production. Include green and orange vegetables and fruits to support the health of both the mother and baby. Foods like Kaeng Lieng, banana blossom salad, and stir-fried ginger are known to boost milk supply.
• Activity: Be more mindful of daily movements like walking, sitting, and sleeping.
• Sleeping Position: In the first trimester, sleeping on your stomach is generally fine. However, as the pregnancy progresses, it's best to sleep on your left side. This position provides better support for the abdomen, making breathing easier.
• Medication: Always consult a doctor before taking any medication, as some can harm the fetus.
• Stretch Marks: Stretch marks are a common side effect of a rapidly expanding abdomen. Using a moisturizer can help reduce their appearance.
• Discomfort/Bloating: To relieve bloating and discomfort, try eating smaller, more frequent meals.
• Exercise: Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves sleep (7-9 hours per night is recommended), aids digestion, and prevents constipation.
• Rest: Get more rest than usual, and try to rest during the day as well.
• Clothing: Wear loose, non-restrictive clothing. Adjust bra size to fit growing breasts and wear flat-soled shoes.

Fetal Development

1.  Trimester 1 (Months 1-3)

     At three months, the fetus is 10-12 cm long and weighs about 15 grams. All organs are formed, and the heart beats at 120-160 beats per minute. The mother will not yet feel the baby move.

2.  Trimester 2 (Months 4-6)

     At six months, the fetus is 30 cm long and weighs about 600 grams. The baby begins to move, can open its eyes and swallow, and develops body hair. The brain grows rapidly, and the mother can now feel the baby kicking.

3.  Trimester 3 (Months 7-9)

     At nine months, the fetus is 50 cm long and weighs 2,800–3,000 grams. The baby is fully developed and can breathe on its own. It will turn its head down toward the birth canal in preparation for delivery.

Caring for yourself during pregnancy is crucial for your baby's healthy development.