10 Tips for A Healthy Pregnancy

Thank you to Heartland Women's Group for sponsoring this post and to Dr. Whiddon for sharing his expertise with Wichita's expecting moms!

men’s Group Wichita
Congratulations, you’re expecting! Now what? Dr. James Whiddon from Heartland Women’s Group shares 10 great tips for a happy, healthy pregnancy.

Tip #1: Prior to getting pregnant, make sure all pre-existing medical conditions are in the best condition they can be. Many women have issues with hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disease and inflammatory bowel conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Visit with a physician to make sure these conditions are at their best and adjust any medications that may not be compatible with pregnancy.

Tip #2: Take a daily vitamin that contains folic acid. This reduces the risk on neural tube defects.

Tip #3: Maintain a healthy diet. Visit with your doctor to learn what foods you should add to your daily routine and which ones you should avoid.

Tip #4: Be honest with your doctor. We are not judgmental. We want to provide you with good care to ensure the best outcome for you and your baby. To do this to the best of our ability, we need accurate and honest information.

Tip #5: Stay active. Regular exercise has been shown to improve pregnancy. Be comfortable with your weight and physical activity level.

Tip #6: Be mentally strong. Pregnancy can be tiring and uncomfortable, but it’s worth it. Try to maintain a positive attitude and keep an eye on the prize.

Tip #7: Ask questions and get information. Sharing concerns with your doctor will help relieve stress.

Tip #8: Decide on a doctor for your baby. Picking a doctor prior to delivery will allow you to meet and ask questions.

Tip #9: Get early prenatal care. Most doctors like to start prenatal care between eight to 12 weeks. Early prenatal care is important to address any pre-existing medical conditions that may be present. It is also important to get a sonogram early if there is a question of how far along you are.

Tip #10: Get consistent prenatal care. Much of the testing and evaluations that occur during pregnancy have to be done at specific times and consistent prenatal care ensures you are there when these tests need to be performed.

Remember that pregnancy is a happy time for most women! Although problems can arise, most can be diagnosed and addressed to ensure a healthy outcome.

This blog post was written to serve as guidance on maintaining a healthy pregnancy and should not be taken as concrete medical advice, nor do the views above reflect the views of Heartland Women’s Group or HCA. As with any medical questions or concerns, please make an appointment with your physician to discuss your own personal situation and treatment options.

Dr. James WhiddonDr. James Whiddon is an obstetrician and gynecologist with Heartland Women’s Group. Aside from infertility, Dr. Whiddon specializes in high-risk obstetrics, gynecological cancer prevention and minimally invasive surgery,  including hysteroscopy, laparoscopy and DaVinci® robotic surgery.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and four children on family trips, at the lake as well as golfing. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 316.858.7100 or visit www.heartlandwomensgroup.com.

Heartland Women's Group

Wichita Mom
Wichita Mom is the #1 parenting website and your local family guide to the best of Wichita! Providing relevant information and all things Wichita, we love to share about our favorite activities, local businesses, things to do, family fun, and helpful resources unique to Wichita Area parents and families.

3 COMMENTS

  1. I just found out I am most likely around 6 weeks pregnant and am overwhelmed not knowing what to do. I didn’t know that doctors started prenatal care as early as 8-12 weeks. I will be sure to make an appointment with an obstetrician in the next few weeks so I can start my prenatal care. I look forward to the sonograms! I was also wondering if it was normal to get morning sickness more during the night? Thank you for all of your tips!

    • Hi Alise! Congratulations! Being pregnant can be overwhelming and exciting all at the same time. We recommend you set up an appointment with an OBGYN who specializes in prenatal care. They can help answer any questions you might have!

  2. I appreciate all of your detailed tips, especially about being prepared before getting pregnant. My husband and I have decided to have our first baby, but I do want to do everything I need to do as soon as possible so that it will run smoothly. I will be sure to take care of all my medical conditions and find a great doctor as you suggested, thank you!

Comments are closed.