Lifestyle habits

You make the difference – a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy. You want to do things right, but the stream of advice can feel endless. Don’t worry: in this article you’ll find clear information on the most important lifestyle topics for you and your baby.

In short: what’s wise and what’s not

1. Healthy eating, regular exercise, and enough sleep support your body throughout pregnancy.
2. Infections such as listeria, toxoplasmosis, and CMV can pose risks — simple precautions help prevent them.
3. Not all medicines are harmful, but always check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
4. Good oral care is extra important: your gums are more sensitive during pregnancy.
5. Working during pregnancy.

• Not sure about something? Please ask us — better once too often than not enough.

1. A healthy life starts with you

Your body goes through many changes during pregnancy. Healthy eating (📎 see our separate article on nutrition), enough rest, fresh air, and regular movement help you stay energized and feel good. Also make time for relaxation and mental wellbeing. Pregnancy isn’t a time to aim for perfection — it’s a time to take good care of yourself.

2. Watch out for infections: prevention is better than cure

Your immune system changes during pregnancy, which can make you more vulnerable to certain infections. Some of these can occasionally have consequences for your baby’s development, though this is rare. A simple cold or mild flu is usually nothing to worry about, but in some cases extra caution is wise.

Read more about Pregnancy & Infections.

💡 If you’ve seen your GP because of an infection, don’t forget to let us know — either at your next appointment or by email.

3. Medications: always check if they’re safe

Are you taking any medication? Not everything is automatically unsafe for your baby, but much is still unknown. When in doubt, always check with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also look it up yourself using the Lareb Medication Guide for Pregnancy of www.nhs.uk.

💡 Let your GP and pharmacy know that you are pregnant — this helps prevent you from being prescribed something that could be harmful.

4. Don’t forget your teeth

Due to pregnancy hormones, your gums can become more sensitive and prone to inflammation. Good oral hygiene is therefore extra important.

Tips:

• Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush.
• Use floss or interdental sticks daily.
• Visit your dentist at least once during pregnancy (before 30 weeks is usually most comfortable).
• 📎 More information at www.canada.ca - dental health or www.cdc.gov - oral-health.

5. Working during pregnancy

Being pregnant and working usually go well together, but it’s important to be mindful of your working conditions. Think about physically demanding work, exposure to harmful substances, night shifts, or working under high pressure. All these factors can affect your health and your baby’s wellbeing. Fortunately, there are clear rules in place to protect you as a pregnant employee.

In Module 3 of the Witsenkade Academy you’ll find detailed articles about your rights and responsibilities during and after pregnancy. We’ve written two versions — one for freelancers and one for employees — so you’ll know exactly what your rights are, what you need to arrange, and how to protect yourself and your baby.

Discuss it with your occupational health doctor or with us. We’ll be happy to think things through with you. You can find more information at business.gov.nl - working conditions (Dutch government).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to worry if I accidentally ate something I shouldn’t have?

No, in most cases everything will be fine. Call us if you’re unsure — we’re here to think along with you.

I feel tired and weak. Is that normal or should I change something?

Fatigue is very common, especially in the first trimester. Make sure you rest enough, eat well, and have your iron levels checked if you’re unsure.

Is exercise dangerous?

On the contrary — exercise is great for you! Choose safe activities such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. Read more in the article Exercise and Physical Activity.

Summary: you’re doing great

A healthy lifestyle during pregnancy isn’t about perfection — it’s about making conscious choices that are good for you and your baby. Keep moving, eat well, rest enough, avoid risks, and listen to your body’s signals. If you’re ever unsure, we’re here to help.

👉 Tip: Write down your questions and bring them to your next appointment at our practice.