Taking care during pregnancy

    • Brief

    • During pregnancy, many changes that can affect you and your baby happen. Your eating, drinking and other habits can help you and your baby thrive.

    • Eating

    • Pay attention to what you eat:

      • Eat healthily: lots of fruit, vegetables and grains (rice and bread) and dairy products (milk and cheese).
      • Eat a lot of small portions per day instead of a few big meals (easier to digest).
      • Some foods, soil, and dirty cat litter can contain germs that are dangerous for the foetus (risk of infection with toxoplasmosis and listeria).
      • Do not eat raw eggs.
      • Do not eat raw or smoked fish.
      • Do not eat raw or medium-rare meat. Wash your hands with soap after cutting raw meat.
      • Eat cheese and drink milk bought from the supermarket (no unpasteurised milk).
      • Wash raw fruit and vegetables very well.
      • Wear gloves if you work in the garden or clean out the cat box. Wash your hands with soap afterwards.

    • Drinking

      • Drink sufficient water (1.5 to 2 litres every day).
      • Do not drink too much coffee, tea or cola.
      • Do not drink alcohol.

    • Medicines, drugs and vitamins

      • Do not take any medicines without asking your midwife or healthcare provider first.
      • Do not smoke.
      • Do not take recreational drugs.
      • Take the recommended vitamins, including “folic acid” during the entire duration of pregnancy. Ask your midwife or healthcare provider for it.

    • Exercise and outdoor living

      • Be active: e.g. walk, cycle or swim.
      • Rest when you feel tired.
      • Stay out of the sun.

    • Sex

    • You can have sex during pregnancy.