Rewritten Title: National Health Expert Outlines Key Factors in Pregnancy Health and Risk Prevention
Article:
A senior medical expert from Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences has provided a comprehensive overview of factors influencing pregnancy health, emphasizing preventative strategies and the importance of medical consultation.
Identifying Risk Factors
In a detailed analysis, Dr. Maliheh Arab, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology, highlighted that advanced maternal age is a significant factor, with women over 35 facing a higher statistical risk. However, she was quick to clarify that this does not preclude healthy pregnancies in this age group.
The list of contributing factors is extensive. Dr. Arab explained that paternal age, a previous history of miscarriage, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension can all play a role. Furthermore, chronic stress, emotional strain, malnutrition, and a general feeling of insecurity—particularly in challenging circumstances—can lower immune levels and exacerbate risks.
Lifestyle and Environmental Considerations
Lifestyle choices are critically important. The use of substances like narcotics, cocaine, and methamphetamines significantly increases the chance of miscarriage. Similarly, smoking, high coffee consumption, and alcohol use are directly linked to higher risks, with the danger escalating alongside the level of use.
Environmental factors also contribute. Exposure to pollutants such as lead, arsenic, air pollution, and radiation, as well as working night shifts, were identified as potential risk elements. Dr. Arab also noted that social and occupational stress could be contributing factors to disparities observed among different demographic groups.
Preventative Measures and Medical Guidance
Dr. Arab stressed that while the list of risks is long, these factors only increase the probability of miscarriage and are not definitive causes. The core of her message focused on proactive prevention and management.
Key recommendations include:
- Pre-conception Health: Managing pre-existing conditions like diabetes and thyroid issues before pregnancy is crucial. The health of the father should also be considered.
- Medical Consultation: Never stop or start any medication, including low-dose aspirin (which can help in specific cases), without direct consultation with a physician.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Ceasing the use of cigarettes, alcohol, recreational drugs, and reducing caffeine intake around the time of pregnancy is strongly advised. Avoiding environmental toxins and radiation is equally important.
- Managing Stress: Where chronic stress is present, postponing pregnancy might be a consideration.
- Prenatal Care: Addressing issues like an IUD in place or placental bleeding promptly with a healthcare provider is essential.
Dr. Arab also provided guidance on sexual activity during pregnancy, noting that while not prohibited, gentle practices are recommended. The presence of prostaglandins in semen can stimulate uterine contractions; therefore, using protection to prevent its entry may be advised, especially if spotting or bleeding occurs.
In conclusion, Dr. Arab reinforced that a collaborative approach between expecting parents and their healthcare providers, focused on management and prevention, is the most effective path to a healthy pregnancy.