What to Do when a Pregnant Woman Becomes Ill

Abstract

As a health worker you are in a position to give advice to pregnant women. Briefly, you should teach them:

• how important it is to eat well;

• that it is good to use a little iodised salt in their food each day (but not too much as this can cause swelling of the feet and other problems);

• how important it is to keep clean—not only to bathe or wash regularly, but also to keep their hair and teeth clean;

• that they should avoid taking medicines but vitamin and iron pills, in the right dosages, can be good—aspirin or antacids may be taken occasionally;

• that they should not smoke or drink alcoholic substances during pregnancy;

• that they should continue to work and take exercise, but not get too tired;