16/07/2023
I remember some years ago while I was in a bus going from my clinic to the state cold chain where I was to pick up some vaccines.
Right beside me was a young pretty pregnant lady, so in my usual friendly manner I began a conversation with her, you know asking her how she was and teasing her that so she will soon be a mother and she was just smiling 😁.
In the course of our conversation,I noticed that she was looking pale (judging from her color, finger nails and tongue as she spake) and somehow malnourished.
So I weekly changed the topic of discussion by properly introducing myself to her as a Midwife which made her feel more comfortable also seeing that I had my vaccine carrier with me 🤷.
Na so I come turn the discussion into health talk o😄.
First I asked if she has registered for antenatal and she said not yet due to money meanwhile her pregnancy is already 5months gone🤦.
So I began teaching her on routine drugs,it's importance and then nutrition in pregnancy, I told her the routine drugs to get and start taking while waiting for the money to register,also advising her to go for a health center which is much more affordable.
By the time I was done with her,she was so excited and full of thanks, promising to do as I have taught her.
And off course I paid for her fare and she was glad but the truth is,I was more happy than she was, why?
Because I had helped someone,you know that feeling you get when you do something really good,yes!
I was so happy and thankful to God that I met her.
My fellow women please listen,though it is advisable to register for antenatal the moment you discover you are pregnant,but then if you are unable to do so at the moment, kindly go to the nearest pharmacy and purchase the basic routine drugs such as Folic acid, Ferrous sulfate and Vitamin B complex and start taking.
This will help to boost your blood level and give you the main vitamins you require.
Please note that to have a good nutrition mustn't cost so much,it can be down on a low budget.
All you need do is ensure you take green vegetables often(almost everyday), use crayfish to cook all your meals ( this one is a life saver🤣) it will enrich your food in the absence of big proteins (food obstacles like 🍖 and 🐠),eat eggs at least 2 weekly, take fruits as much as you can afford, drink lots of water to keep you hydrated and try to blend your meals daily.
Dont do carbohydrates 3 times a day, squeeze in other classes of foods as well daily to help balance your meals.
And lastly REST! You must realize that a full human being is being formed in your body which most times saps your energy,so you need to refuel by resting.
Finally never shot your eyes to anyone (especially pregnant women) around you who needs helps or you know can benefit from one or two advice you have to give maybe as a health professional or as an experienced mum because when dealing with a pregnant woman,two or more lives are involved,but then be sure to give a good advice and not anything based on myths🤷.
Happy Sunday you all,it's better late than never right 🤣?
