Pregnancy A - Z Guide | D | By Pregnacare

Are you pregnant? Make sure you read our Pregnacare A-Z of Pregnancy and Nutrition, covering everything important for parents-to-be. We take a look at the letter D during pregnancy

Our Pregnacare A-Z is a series of posts, one for each letter of the alphabet, designed to help you understand your nutritional needs, how they change and the best foods to choose during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

This A to Z answers many of the important questions mums-to-be have about pregnancy and nutrition. It covers everything from antenatal care through to water intake, via pregnancy vitamin supplements.

You can download the full version of the guide in PDF format here.

If you have any further questions, make sure you ask your midwife or GP.

Pregnacare A-Z Of Pregnancy And Nutrition – What Does The Letter D Stand For?

Dairy Products

What Dairy Products Can I Eat During Pregnancy?

Pregnant and breast-feeding women are encouraged to eat moderate amounts of dairy foods such as milk and cheese which contain calcium, protein, vitamin D and zinc. Also see L, for Listeria.

Read our post on the types of cheese you can eat during pregnancy.

Dehydration

Why Is It Important To Stay Hydrated During Pregnancy?

The increased metabolism during pregnancy leaves women more vulnerable to dehydration so an adequate fluid intake is important, especially when it is hot or when exercising. Never limit fluid intake to avoid frequent trips to the toilet - dehydration can lead to premature contractions and can contribute to fatigue and dizziness.

Severe morning sickness can also lead to dehydration so monitor fluid intake if this occurs.

Remember to continue drinking plenty of fluids throughout your pregnancy and while breast-feeding

Dental Care

How Will My Teeth Be Impacted By Pregnancy, And Can I Access Free Dental Care Whilst Pregnant?

Pregnancy can aggravate dental problems. Gingivitis (an inflammation of the gums) is a common problem, which may be the result of increased blood flow to the gums caused by pregnancy hormones and may require treatment. It can lead to bleeding gums and has been associated with complications of pregnancy, such as premature birth.

Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush after meals or at least twice a day to help prevent cavities and gingivitis. Flossing regularly and avoiding sugary drinks and food will also help to protect your gums.

NHS dental care is free during pregnancy and until 1 year after your due date, so see your dentist regularly and make sure they know you are pregnant.

Diabetes

What Are The Implications Of Diabetes During Pregnancy?

The combination of diabetes and pregnancy increases the risk of complications for both the mother and baby.*

For women with diabetes, the risk of complications can be considerably reduced with optimal control of diabetes from the time of conception – this includes healthy eating and nutrition.

Gestational diabetes occurs in around 3-5% of pregnancies so all women are routinely monitored during pregnancy for increasing glucose levels. Specialist advice and monitoring is offered to women who show signs of gestational diabetes. If you are deemed a risk of developing gestational diabetes or you show signs, you may be offered a test for it during your pregnancy.

*www.nhs.uk

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea During Pregnancy

Most often, diarrhoea in pregnancy is a result of changing hormone levels – predominantly increased levels of progesterone. However if accompanied by a fever or vomiting, and if it persists for more than 24 hours, you may wish to speak to your midwife or GP to eliminate other potential causes such as food poisoning.

Make sure you also check out the rest of our Pregnacare A-Z Guide to Pregnancy and Nutrition:

A / B / C / D / E / F / G / H / I / J / L / M / N / P / S / T / U / V / W 

While every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained in this guide is accurate and reliable, this is intended as a guide only and not a substitute for advice from a health professional. Please note: Vitabiotics cannot guarantee the reliability of facts obtained from other third party information sources. Information correct at time of being published (May 2020).