Pregnancy is a crucial period in a woman’s life, during which the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby are of utmost importance. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and a positive outcome for both individuals. However, an unbalanced and improper diet during this time can have severe consequences.
Neglecting proper eating habits during pregnancy can lead to a lack of essential nutrients that are critical for the development and growth of the baby. An inadequate and unhealthy diet can result in malnutrition or undernourishment for both the mother and the baby, putting their health at risk. This deficiency in nutrition can lead to a range of complications, from low birth weight to developmental delays and even long-term health issues.
Starvation or insufficient intake of vital nutrients during pregnancy can also affect the mother’s health. The body undergoes significant physiological changes during pregnancy, requiring increased energy and specific nutrients. When these needs are not met, the mother’s body may become depleted, making her more susceptible to infections, fatigue, and other health problems. Moreover, poor maternal nutrition can increase the risk of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
It is essential for expectant mothers to be aware of the potential consequences of an improper diet and take steps to improve their eating habits. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is highly recommended to ensure a well-balanced and nutritious diet during pregnancy. By prioritizing proper nutrition and making healthier food choices, expectant mothers can promote both their own well-being and that of their growing baby.
Unhealthy Eating Habits During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a critical period for both the mother and the baby, and maintaining a healthy diet is essential for their well-being. However, some women develop unhealthy eating habits during pregnancy, which can have negative consequences for both themselves and their babies.
One of the most common unhealthy eating habits during pregnancy is undernourishment or starvation. Some women may restrict their caloric intake drastically, fearing weight gain or believing in false ideas about pregnancy weight. This can lead to a deficiency in essential nutrients and create a higher risk of malnutrition for both the mother and the baby.
Another unhealthy eating habit during pregnancy is opting for an insufficient or improper diet. Some women may consume foods that lack the necessary nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This type of unbalanced nutrition can lead to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, affecting the development of the baby and compromising the mother’s overall health.
Neglecting proper nutrition during pregnancy can also result in overall poor health, making the mother more susceptible to various health issues. Insufficient calorie intake and improper diet can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections and illnesses. Furthermore, unhealthy eating habits can contribute to weight-related complications, such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
It is crucial to address these unhealthy eating habits and promote a well-balanced diet during pregnancy. Education and counseling are key in helping women understand the importance of consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods to support both their own health and the optimal growth and development of their babies.
Risks of Inadequate Nutrition During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for both the mother and the baby. However, an unhealthy diet or neglecting proper nutrition can lead to various risks and complications. The following are some of the risks associated with inadequate nutrition during pregnancy:
Malnutrition and Undernourishment
During pregnancy, improper eating habits and insufficient nutrition can lead to malnutrition and undernourishment. Lack of essential nutrients can affect the growth and development of the baby, increasing the risk of birth defects and low birth weight. Inadequate nutrition can also lead to a weakened immune system, making both the mother and the baby more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Unbalanced Diet
An inadequate diet during pregnancy may result in an unbalanced intake of nutrients. This can lead to deficiencies in vital nutrients such as iron, calcium, folic acid, and vitamins. These deficiencies can impact the mother’s health, causing fatigue, weakness, and anemia. They can also affect the baby’s development, leading to issues such as weak bones and impaired cognitive function.
Starvation and extreme measures
In extreme cases of inadequate nutrition during pregnancy, starvation may occur. Women with unhealthy eating habits or those suffering from eating disorders may restrict their food intake to dangerous levels, depriving themselves and their babies of crucial nutrients. This can lead to severe complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays.
Nutrition plays a vital role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. It is important for expectant mothers to prioritize their diet and ensure they are receiving adequate and balanced nutrition. Consulting with healthcare professionals or registered dietitians can provide valuable guidance for maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy.
Potential Consequences of Malnutrition During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a critical period for both the mother and the baby, and a poor diet during this time can have serious consequences. Malnutrition, which refers to a deficiency or lack of proper nutrition, can result from habits such as improper eating, starvation, unbalanced diets, undernourishment, neglect, or inadequate food intake.
1. Maternal Health Problems
Malnutrition during pregnancy can lead to a variety of health problems for the mother. Insufficient nutrition can weaken her immune system, making her more susceptible to infections and illnesses. It can also increase the risk of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, anemia, and other complications.
2. Poor Fetal Development
The effects of malnutrition are especially detrimental to the developing fetus. A lack of essential nutrients can impair the baby’s growth and development, leading to a low birth weight, stunted growth, and increased risk of birth defects. Malnutrition can also affect the baby’s cognitive development, resulting in long-term learning and behavioral difficulties.
3. Increased Risk of Complications
Poor nutrition during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications during childbirth. Malnourished women are more likely to experience prolonged labor, have a higher chance of needing a caesarean section, and may have difficulties producing breast milk for their newborns.
4. Long-Term Health Effects
The consequences of malnutrition during pregnancy can extend beyond the immediate postnatal period. Babies born to malnourished mothers may have a higher risk of developing chronic diseases later in life, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. These long-term health effects highlight the importance of proper nutrition during pregnancy.
In conclusion, malnutrition during pregnancy can have severe consequences for both the mother and the baby. It is crucial for expectant mothers to prioritize their nutrition and seek appropriate healthcare to ensure a healthy pregnancy and optimal development for their child.
Importance of Balanced Diet for Pregnant Women
During pregnancy, it is crucial for women to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to ensure the health and well-being of both themselves and their babies. Insufficient or malnutrition during pregnancy can have detrimental effects on both the mother and the baby.
An inadequate diet can lead to a lack of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are crucial for the proper development and growth of the baby. This can result in various issues such as low birth weight, premature birth, and developmental delays.
Poor eating habits and nutrition during pregnancy can also lead to complications for the mother. Starvation or deficiency of essential nutrients can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections and diseases. Neglecting proper nutrition can also lead to unhealthy weight gain and increase the chances of gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
Unbalanced or improper diet during pregnancy can cause undernourishment in both the mother and the baby. The lack of necessary nutrients can impair the development of vital organs and systems in the growing fetus. It can also lead to an increased risk of birth defects and lifelong health issues for the baby.
It is important for pregnant women to prioritize their nutrition and consume a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. They should also ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients such as folic acid, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is recommended to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets the specific needs and requirements of each pregnant woman. By maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, pregnant women can help promote their own health and the optimal development of their babies.
Lack of Nutrients During Pregnancy: Impact on Fetal Development
The importance of proper nutrition during pregnancy cannot be emphasized enough. When a pregnant woman has an unhealthy or inadequate diet, it can have severe consequences for both herself and her developing baby. The lack of essential nutrients can lead to unbalanced and deficient fetal development.
Insufficient intake of crucial vitamins and minerals can result in undernourishment for the growing fetus. The baby relies solely on the mother’s eating habits to obtain the necessary nutrients for optimal development. Neglecting proper nutrition may cause detrimental effects such as stunted growth, impaired organ development, and increased risk of birth defects.
Poor dietary choices during pregnancy can lead to improper eating habits, contributing to starvation-like conditions for the fetus. The baby’s limited access to nutrients can hinder proper brain development, leading to cognitive impairments later in life. Additionally, a lack of essential nutrients can weaken the baby’s immune system, making them more susceptible to illnesses and diseases.
| Deficiency | Impact |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Increased risk of vision problems, immune system deficiencies |
| Vitamin D | Impaired bone development, weakened immune system |
| Folic Acid | Increased risk of neural tube defects, low birth weight |
| Iron | Anemia, low birth weight, increased risk of preterm birth |
It is crucial for pregnant women to prioritize proper nutrition and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they are meeting their dietary needs. A balanced and varied diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products, is essential for the healthy development of the fetus.
Overall, the insufficient intake of nutrients during pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on both the mother and the baby. It is essential to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to provide the necessary building blocks for optimal fetal development and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Maternal Health Complications Due to Poor Diet in Pregnancy
Poor diet during pregnancy can have serious consequences for both the mother and her baby. When a pregnant woman does not receive adequate nutrition, it can lead to various health complications and risks.
Lack of Essential Nutrients
Undernourishment or malnutrition caused by an inadequate diet can lead to a deficiency in essential nutrients. When the mother’s body lacks these nutrients, it can affect her overall health and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. This can include anemia, weakened immune system, and poor wound healing.
Unhealthy Eating Habits
An unbalanced and improper diet during pregnancy can lead to a variety of health issues. Consuming excessive amounts of unhealthy foods high in sugar, saturated fats, and sodium can increase the risk of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and excessive weight gain during pregnancy.
On the other hand, an insufficient intake of essential nutrients like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can result in nutrient deficiencies, low birth weight, and developmental problems in the baby.
Increased Risk of Pregnancy Complications
Neglecting proper nutrition during pregnancy can also increase the risk of various pregnancy complications. These may include preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, preterm birth, and complications during labor and delivery.
Furthermore, a poor diet during pregnancy can also affect the baby’s long-term health. Studies have linked maternal malnutrition to an increased risk of chronic diseases later in the child’s life, such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and Type 2 diabetes.
It is crucial for pregnant women to prioritize their nutrition and maintain a balanced diet to ensure both their own health and the health of their baby. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals or nutritionists can help pregnant women make informed choices and develop healthy eating habits during pregnancy.
Effects of Poor Diet on Infant Health at Birth
A poor diet during pregnancy can have significant consequences on the health of the infant at birth. When a pregnant woman does not consume enough nutritious food, it can lead to various negative effects on the development of the baby.
1. Starvation and Undernourishment
Insufficient intake of essential nutrients during pregnancy can result in starvation and undernourishment of the developing fetus. This can lead to stunted growth, low birth weight, and an increased risk of complications during delivery.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
An improper and inadequate diet during pregnancy can cause nutritional deficiencies in the infant. Lack of essential vitamins and minerals can negatively affect the baby’s immune system, cognitive development, and overall health.
3. Increased Risk of Malnutrition
When a pregnant woman neglects her nutrition, it can increase the risk of malnutrition in the baby. Malnutrition can lead to delayed physical and mental development, impaired organ function, and a higher susceptibility to infections and diseases.
4. Unbalanced Diet and Health Risks
An unhealthy and unbalanced diet during pregnancy can result in health risks for the infant. Consuming high amounts of unhealthy foods, such as processed foods and sugary drinks, can increase the risk of gestational diabetes and obesity in the baby.
In conclusion, the effects of poor diet on infant health at birth during pregnancy are significant. It is crucial for expectant mothers to maintain a well-balanced and nutritious diet to ensure the optimal development and health of their babies.
Long-Term Effects of Poor Nutrition on Child’s Health
Poor nutrition during pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on the health of the child. A lack of proper nutrition during this critical period can lead to a number of negative outcomes, including stunted growth, cognitive impairments, and an increased risk of chronic diseases later in life.
Stunted Growth
Malnutrition and undernourishment during pregnancy can result in insufficient nutrient intake for the developing fetus. This can lead to inadequate growth and development, causing the child to be shorter and smaller than their peers. Stunted growth can have lifelong consequences, impacting physical health, cognitive abilities, and overall well-being.
Cognitive Impairments
Improper nutrition during pregnancy can also impact the child’s cognitive abilities. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can lead to insufficient brain development, affecting learning abilities, memory, and overall cognitive function. This can potentially hinder the child’s educational and intellectual progress in the long run.
Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases
Children who experienced poor nutrition during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing chronic diseases later in life. The imbalance of nutrients and unhealthy eating habits can contribute to the development of conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. These long-term health issues can significantly impact the child’s quality of life and increase healthcare costs.
In conclusion, the consequences of neglecting proper nutrition during pregnancy are far-reaching. The deficiency of essential nutrients, the result of inadequate or improper diet, can lead to stunted growth, cognitive impairments, and an increased risk of chronic diseases. It is crucial for expecting mothers to prioritize their nutritional intake and consult healthcare professionals for guidance on maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet throughout pregnancy.
Gestational Weight Gain and Diet Quality: Relationship
Eating habits and nutrition play a crucial role during pregnancy. A poor diet during this time can lead to various negative effects on both the mother and baby. One key aspect to consider is gestational weight gain and its relationship with diet quality.
The Importance of Diet Quality
A deficiency in essential nutrients can result in malnutrition and inadequate fetal development. An unhealthy and undernourished diet can lead to improper weight gain and an unbalanced nutrient intake. This can contribute to a range of complications during pregnancy, including increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and impaired cognitive development in the baby.
The Impact of Poor Diet on Gestational Weight Gain
During pregnancy, the body has increased energy needs to support the growth of the fetus. Consuming a diet that is lacking in essential nutrients can lead to a state of starvation and insufficient energy intake. This can result in inadequate weight gain during pregnancy, which can have negative health consequences for both the mother and baby.
Furthermore, a lack of proper nutrition can also affect the body’s ability to metabolize and utilize nutrients effectively, leading to imbalances and deficiencies.
It is important for pregnant women to focus on a balanced and nutrient-rich diet that provides sufficient calories and essential nutrients. This includes consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Proper nutrition during pregnancy not only supports the overall health and well-being of the mother but also promotes optimal fetal development and growth. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help pregnant women ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs and maintaining a healthy gestational weight gain.
Link Between Poor Maternal Diet and Preterm Delivery
Poor maternal diet during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of preterm delivery. Eating an unhealthy diet during pregnancy can lead to various complications and negative effects on both the mother and the baby.
Maternal malnutrition, which can occur due to inadequate food intake or improper eating habits, can result in undernourishment and deficiencies in essential nutrients. This lack of proper nutrition can affect the development of the baby and increase the likelihood of preterm delivery.
Research has shown that malnourished mothers are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, which can lead to preterm delivery. Additionally, maternal malnutrition can impact the growth and development of the baby, increasing the risk of low birth weight and other health issues.
Furthermore, an unbalanced or deficient diet during pregnancy can contribute to a weakened immune system in both the mother and the baby. This can make them more susceptible to infections and illnesses, further increasing the chances of preterm delivery.
It is essential for expectant mothers to prioritize their nutritional needs and ensure they are consuming a well-balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. This means incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products into their daily meals.
Proper nutrition during pregnancy plays a crucial role in promoting the growth and development of the baby and reducing the risk of preterm delivery and associated complications. Healthcare providers should educate expectant mothers about the importance of a healthy diet and provide support to improve their eating habits if necessary.
In conclusion, poor maternal diet during pregnancy can have significant consequences, including an increased risk of preterm delivery. It is crucial for expectant mothers to prioritize their nutrition and take steps to ensure they are consuming a balanced diet to support their own well-being and the health of their baby.
Psychological Impact of Inadequate Nutrition during Pregnancy
Poor habits and deficiency in healthy eating during pregnancy can have a significant psychological impact on both the mother and the baby. When a pregnant woman consumes an unhealthy and unbalanced diet, it can lead to a lack of essential nutrients, resulting in undernourishment. This improper nutrition can cause physical and emotional distress for the mother and impair the development of the baby.
The psychological effects of inadequate nutrition during pregnancy can range from feelings of guilt and worry to anxiety and depression. A mother may experience high levels of stress due to the neglect of her own health and concerns about the well-being of her unborn child. This can interfere with her ability to bond with the baby and impact her overall mental well-being.
Eating Disorders and Pregnancy
Inadequate nutrition during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing or worsening eating disorders. Women who have a history of disordered eating may find it challenging to maintain a healthy diet during this critical time. The pressure to eat for two combined with societal expectations of pregnancy weight gain can contribute to feelings of distress and body image concerns. This can lead to the development of severe eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or binge eating disorder.
The Importance of Proper Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential during pregnancy to support the physical and psychological well-being of both the mother and the baby. It is crucial for pregnant women to consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients necessary for fetal growth and development. A lack of sufficient nutrients can have long-lasting effects on the mental health and cognitive function of the child.
Addressing Inadequate Nutrition
To address inadequate nutrition during pregnancy, healthcare professionals should prioritize education and support for expectant mothers. This includes providing information about the importance of balanced eating, offering resources for healthy meal planning, and ensuring access to prenatal vitamins and supplements when necessary. Additionally, mental health support should be readily available to help mothers cope with the emotional challenges associated with inadequate nutrition during this critical time.
Role of Healthcare Professionals in Promoting Healthy Diets
Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in promoting and advocating for healthy diets during pregnancy. They are at the forefront of educating mothers and ensuring they have access to sufficient nutrition to support both their own health and the optimal development of their babies.
Insufficient or malnutrition during pregnancy can have severe consequences for both mother and baby. It can lead to starvation for the growing fetus and increase the risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental problems. Healthcare professionals are aware of these risks and work tirelessly to prevent them.
During prenatal visits, healthcare professionals assess the dietary habits of pregnant women and provide guidance on making healthy choices. They emphasize the importance of adequate and balanced nutrition, ensuring that mothers have access to all the essential nutrients their bodies need. This includes educating them about the importance of consuming a variety of foods from different food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy products.
In cases where a pregnant woman’s diet is found to be inadequate or unhealthy, healthcare professionals make recommendations and provide resources to address the issue. They may refer mothers to registered dietitians or nutritionists who can offer personalized meal plans and guidance on proper eating habits. They may also provide information on community resources, such as food assistance programs, to ensure that pregnant women have access to nutritious foods.
Healthcare professionals also educate pregnant women about the dangers of undernourishment and the negative effects it can have on both the mother and the developing baby. They stress the importance of not neglecting one’s nutritional needs and the potential consequences of improper eating habits during pregnancy.
Overall, healthcare professionals are instrumental in promoting and reinforcing healthy eating habits during pregnancy. Their role is multidimensional, encompassing not only education but also support and advocacy for pregnant women. Through their efforts, they strive to ensure that pregnant women receive the proper nutrition they need to maintain their health and the health of their babies.
Strategies for Improving Maternal Diet during Pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is crucial for expectant mothers to prioritize their nutrition in order to support the healthy growth and development of both themselves and their baby. Poor diet during pregnancy can lead to a range of negative effects, including the risk of unbalanced nutrition, inadequate intake of essential nutrients, and overall undernourishment.
To avoid these potential risks, it is important for pregnant women to adopt healthy eating habits and avoid neglecting their dietary needs. This involves making conscious choices to consume a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
An unhealthy and insufficient diet during pregnancy can result in a lack of key nutrients, such as folic acid, iron, calcium, and protein, which are vital for the development of the baby. Insufficient intake of these nutrients can contribute to birth defects, low birth weight, and other complications.
To ensure an adequate intake of essential nutrients, pregnant women should aim to consume a well-balanced diet that includes foods from all food groups. It is important to eat a sufficient amount of calories to support the increased energy needs during pregnancy, but without overeating. This means avoiding excessive calorie intake from processed foods, sugary snacks, and unhealthy fats.
In addition to adopting a balanced diet, pregnant women should also consider taking prenatal vitamins to address any potential deficiencies. Prenatal vitamins typically contain the recommended amounts of key nutrients, such as folic acid and iron, which are necessary for the healthy development of the baby.
Proper hydration is also essential during pregnancy. Pregnant women should aim to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to support overall health and prevent dehydration.
Overall, it is crucial for expectant mothers to prioritize their nutrition during pregnancy and make necessary adjustments to their eating habits. By avoiding improper and inadequate eating, pregnant women can help ensure that both themselves and their baby receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and development.
Community Interventions to Address Poor Diet in Pregnancy
Poor diet during pregnancy can lead to malnutrition and have detrimental effects on both the mother and baby. An unbalanced or insufficient diet can result in starvation, lack of essential nutrients, and deficiency of key vitamins and minerals. Improper and unhealthy eating habits during pregnancy can also contribute to undernourishment and neglect of the mother’s own nutritional needs.
Addressing poor diet in pregnancy requires community interventions that focus on promoting proper nutrition and creating a supportive environment for pregnant women. These interventions can include:
- Educational programs: Providing pregnant women with information and resources on the importance of a healthy diet during pregnancy. This can include workshops, classes, and one-on-one counseling sessions.
- Access to nutritious food: Ensuring pregnant women have access to a variety of fresh and healthy food options, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This can be achieved through community gardens, farmers markets, and food assistance programs.
- Support networks: Creating support networks for pregnant women where they can connect with others going through similar experiences and receive guidance and encouragement. These networks can provide a platform for sharing recipes, tips, and advice on maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy.
- Cooking and meal planning resources: Providing pregnant women with cooking and meal planning resources that emphasize healthy, balanced meals. This can include recipe books, meal planning guides, and online resources.
- Collaboration with healthcare providers: Collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure pregnant women are receiving regular check-ups and screenings to monitor their nutritional status. Healthcare providers can also offer personalized dietary advice and refer pregnant women to additional resources if needed.
By implementing these community interventions, it is possible to address the issue of poor diet in pregnancy and improve the overall nutrition and well-being of both mothers and babies. It is important to create a supportive environment that empowers pregnant women to make healthy food choices and provides them with the tools and resources they need to do so.
Policy Implications for Improving Maternal Nutrition
Eating a poor diet during pregnancy can have detrimental effects on both the mother and the baby. The consequences of starvation, inadequate or unbalanced nutrition during pregnancy can lead to malnutrition, insufficient weight gain, and undernourishment. It is crucial to address these issues and implement policies that promote healthy eating habits during pregnancy.
One of the main policy implications is to educate women about the importance of proper nutrition during pregnancy. This includes providing information on what foods to eat and what foods to avoid. Women should be aware of the risks associated with unhealthy eating habits and understand the consequences of lack of proper nutrition.
Another policy implication is to ensure that pregnant women have access to affordable and nutritious food. Many women may not have the financial means to purchase a variety of nutritious foods, leading to deficiency in certain essential nutrients. Government programs and initiatives can help provide assistance to pregnant women, ensuring that they have access to the necessary resources for a healthy diet.
Neglect and undernourishment during pregnancy should also be a focus of policy efforts. Healthcare providers should be trained to identify signs of malnutrition or improper nutrition during prenatal visits. They should be equipped to provide appropriate guidance and support to pregnant women, addressing any nutritional deficiencies or unhealthy eating habits.
In conclusion, improving maternal nutrition during pregnancy requires a multi-faceted approach. Policy implications should include education, access to affordable and nutritious food, and healthcare provider training. By addressing these issues, we can help ensure that all women have the opportunity to have a healthy pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby.