Sunway city: 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Sharmina highlighted the increasing necessity of pre-pregnancy screening due to the rise of diabetes and hypertension among young Malaysians. Undiagnosed or poorly controlled medical conditions can adversely affect both mother and baby. She also emphasized the importance of folic acid supplementation even before a positive pregnancy test to prevent neural tube defects.
Dr Sharmina explained that each trimester of pregnancy presents unique milestones, with the first trimester being the most delicate as the baby's organs form, while the subsequent trimesters focus on growth, maturation, and bonding. During this time, nutrition is crucial. A lack of essential nutrients in the mother can directly affect the baby, prompting Dr Sharmina to advise pregnant women to avoid smoking and alcohol, limit caffeine, and prioritize a balanced diet rich in protein, leafy greens, whole grains, and dairy or fortified alternatives.
She pointed out that deficiencies in iron, calcium, and vitamin D are common among expectant mothers. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia and poor fetal growth, while low calcium and vitamin D may weaken maternal bones. However, supplements should only be taken under medical advice.
Dr Sharmina stressed the critical role of antenatal care in early detection and prevention, noting that early scans confirm viability and accurate dating. Regular reviews, typically monthly until 28 weeks unless closer monitoring is needed, can help detect conditions such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes before symptoms worsen.
During festive periods, mothers can celebrate safely by choosing balanced meals, avoiding alcohol, ensuring food is well-cooked, and prioritizing adequate rest, hydration, and sleep. After birth, Dr Sharmina encourages immediate skin-to-skin contact, which stabilizes the baby's blood sugar, supports breastfeeding, and strengthens bonding.
She also addressed the emotional aspects of postpartum recovery, noting that 60 to 80 percent of postpartum mothers may experience temporary 'postpartum blues.' Persistent sadness or withdrawal may signal postpartum depression and should prompt medical attention. Mothers should watch for warning signs after delivery, such as increasing pain, fever, poor wound healing, or foul-smelling discharge.
During confinement, adequate protein, iron, and fluids are essential for healing and milk production, while restricting water intake can increase dehydration and blood clot risks. Gentle movement is encouraged to improve blood circulation. Dr Sharmina also emphasized the benefits of early breastfeeding and the importance of handwashing and limiting 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.