Preparing For Pregnancy: Giving Your Baby The Best Start

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 (Bernama) -- Good health for mother and baby should begin before conception, with early planning, medical screening, and balanced habits throughout pregnancy and after birth.

Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Sharmina Kamal Shamsul Kamal said pre-pregnancy health checks can help detect diabetes, hypertension and other underlying conditions that may affect fertility, pregnancy and newborn outcomes.

“With diabetes and hypertension rising among young Malaysians, pre-pregnancy screening is becoming a necessity. Undiagnosed or poorly controlled medical conditions can affect both mother and baby,” she said in a statement today. 

She said that folic acid supplementation is equally critical and should begin even before a positive pregnancy test to help prevent neural tube defects.

She emphasised that each trimester during pregnancy brings unique milestones with the first trimester being the most delicate as the baby’s organs are forming, while the second and third trimesters focus on growth, maturation and bonding, as babies begin to respond to voices and movement.

Dr Sharmina said that diet is often underestimated and a lack of essential nutrients in the mother can directly affect the baby, therefore she advised pregnant women to avoid smoking and alcohol, limit caffeine, and prioritise a balanced diet rich in protein, leafy greens, whole grains and dairy or fortified alternatives.

“Iron, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies are common among expectant mothers. Iron deficiency can cause anaemia and poor foetal growth, while low calcium and vitamin D may weaken maternal bones. However, supplements should only be taken under medical advice,” she said. 

She stressed that antenatal care, often perceived as routine, plays a critical role in early detection and prevention.

“Early scans confirm viability and accurate dating, while regular reviews, typically monthly until 28 weeks unless closer monitoring is needed to help detect conditions such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes before symptoms worsen.

“At each visit, we monitor the baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid to ensure everything remains on track,” she said.

During festive periods, Dr Sharmina said mothers can still celebrate safely in moderation so as long they choose balanced meals, avoid alcohol, ensure food is well cooked, and prioritise adequate rest, hydration and sleep, ideally eight to 10 hours a night.

After birth, she encourages immediate skin-to-skin contact, which helps stabilise the baby’s blood sugar, supports breastfeeding, and strengthens bonding as many mothers may experience temporary “postpartum blues” during this period. 

“About 60 to 80 per cent of postpartum mothers may feel tearful or emotionally sensitive in the first two weeks. However, persistent sadness, withdrawal or worsening symptoms may signal postpartum depression and should prompt medical attention,” she said.

Dr Sharmina also advised mothers to watch for warning signs after delivery, including increasing pain, fever, poor wound healing or foul-smelling discharge.

“During confinement, adequate protein, iron and fluids is essential to support healing and milk production. Restricting water intake can increase dehydration and blood clot risks while reducing breast milk supply,” she said, adding that mothers should be encouraged to move gently to improve blood circulation.

She also highlighted the benefits of early breastfeeding, noting it provides strong protection for newborns. At the same time, she emphasised the importance of handwashing and limiting very close contact with newborns to reduce infection risks while maintaining bonding.

“With informed choices, medical care and family support, mothers can enjoy this period and give their children a healthy start,” she added.

-- BERNAMA