Page 23 - Waterfall City Issue 5 May 2025

Awareness matters:
YOUR BABY’S FUTURE

By Dr Taheera Hassim, Obstetrician gynaecologist, Netcare Sunninghill Hospital

P lanning a pregnancy offers at least three months before trying 6. Start a good exercise programme,
to conceive, as it needs time to
the opportunity to prepare
as this has been shown to improve
fertility and makes for a healthier
build up in your system. This is
an optimally healthy
foundation for your baby’s
pregnancy and baby.
risk of your baby having spinal
future health and development. recommended to help reduce the 7. Make sure you have had your
defects. cervical screening test and screen
Obstetrician gynaecologist Dr Taheera 2. Start getting into the habit of for conditions that could impact
Hassim, who practises at Netcare having a healthy, balanced diet. This your pregnancy.
Sunninghill Hospital, says that in addition not only improves fertility, but it can 8. Make sure that your measles,
to quality antenatal and maternity care, also have a positive impact on your mumps and rubella (MMR)
the months leading up to conception are baby’s future health. vaccination is up to date.
equally important when planning a baby. 3. Cut back on caffeine, found in 9. Discuss any chronic health
coffee, tea, fizzy and energy drinks, conditions, your mental health, and
“A pre-conception check-up can help and chocolate, well before you plan all medications and supplements
identify factors that could impact your to conceive. you are taking with your medical
pregnancy and the life of your child 4. Kick the unhealthy habits if you team well before falling pregnant.
forever after, empowering you to take smoke, drink alcohol or use Never stop taking medication
proactive steps that can give your little recreational drugs. These can without consulting your treating
one the best start to maximise their seriously impact the health of the healthcare professional.
potential,” Dr Hassim says. foetus if present in your system 10. Get to know your medical family
when you conceive. history and your partner’s and
10 tips for planning a healthy 5. If you are overweight or discuss any concerns or previous
pregnancy: underweight, try to get closer to a pregnancy complications with
1. Start taking folic acid supplements healthy weight. your obstetrician.

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