Keeping lifestyle changes in perspective
When a woman finds out she is pregnant, it is not unusual for her to develop a renewed motivation to want to look after her body for her baby. This often involves considering a few lifestyle changes (if she has not already started these in preparation for the pregnancy).
Making positive choices to give up some much loved vices will assist your body to nurture your new baby, as well as minimise the chances of them developing birth defects and/or being unwell after the birth. In many cases giving up a habit (such as smoking) will reduce your chances of experiencing pregnancy and labour complications.
NOTE: While reading about these lifestyle changes, bear in mind that we do not live in a perfect world, and up to 50% of pregnancies are unplanned. Therefore, remind yourself that there are many factors that can influence a baby's development and the normal course of a pregnancy. The recommendations for most lifestyle changes are based on the fact that they are usually aspects of our lives that we have some control over, and can make conscious decisions to avoid. In reality, even with all the research at our fingertips, we still do not know everything about the causes miscarriage and health disorders for unborn babies. (For example, up to 60% of abnormal conditions in babies are caused by unknown factors.)
Many women can feel guilty if they find out they are pregnant, and know they have used (or abused) certain substances, especially during the early weeks before their pregnancy was confirmed. Keeping the various lifestyle recommendations in perspective is important. Obtaining accurate information and advice is imperative, particularly if your caregiver is suggesting you terminate your pregnancy because you have taken a medication or drug during early pregnancy. This is discussed in more depth below in
keeping lifestyle changes in perspective.