What is my expected delivery date ?
Your Doctor or Dai Ma (midwife) will calculate delivery date by adding 9 months and 7 days to the first day of your last period. It is an expected delivery date, nearby which delivery can be expected on any day. They will also use ultrasound scan or other examination to be accurate. This date is a assumption, by which delivery will be done. It may very either earlier or later on by the day but nearby days. In the early months due to hormonal changes in the body, you may feel morning sickness, nausea or vomiting.
If you do suffer from morning sickness, try to:
• avoid cooking smells
• get as much fresh air as possible
• consumption of good amount of water
• eat small meals frequently (every 2-3 hours), rather than two or three larger ones
• avoid fatty or spicy foods
• eat a dry cracker, plain biscuit or a slice of toast in the morning before you get out of bed Ask your midwife or dietitian for advice.
If symptoms are severe, contact your GP. Morning sickness usually improves after 16 weeks.
Eating for two?
You should eat a balanced healthy diet, for your own health as well as your baby’s growth and development. You don’t need to ‘eat for two’, but it is important to eat enough of the right foods. Use the Healthy Eating for Pregnancy booklet to plan a healthy diet. Something to think about Cut out alcohol altogether while you’re pregnant – this is the best way to reduce any risk of damage to your baby from alcohol. If you or your partner smoke, do your best to stop now. Cigarette smoke releases dangerous chemicals into your blood which pass on to your baby. These can reduce your baby’s growth and increase the risk of complications. Don’t take any drugs – not even paracetamol – without asking your doctor.