IMAM GUIDE

1. NUTRITION IN THE LIFE CYCLE

NUTRITION CARE DURING PREGNANCY AND LACTATION

PREGNANCY

Pregnancy is a critical period in the life cycle because of many body changes that occur in the
mother and the fetus. Good nutrition is important for a successful child delivery. Dietary advice
relating to pregnancy is one of the major factors in determining the future well-being of a child
conceived. Good nutrition during pregnancy reduces childhood morbidity and mortality, and
minimizes the risks of maternal death associated with pregnancy. Several studies have shown
that poor nutrition during pregnancy lead to physical, emotional and neurological disorders in
the infant.

HIGH RISK PREGNANCY FACTORS INCLUDE

Maternal weight: Both total weight gain and patterns of weight are important indicators of
pregnancy outcomes. Weight should be gained gradually. Excessive weight gain is gaining
more than one kilogram of body weight in a week (>1kg/week) while inadequate weight
gain is gaining less than one kilogram of body weight in one month (<1kg/month).

Pre-pregnancy BMI either < 19.8 or > 26.0: This may lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities
and eating disorders.

Previous pregnancies may put the mother at a nutritional risk
 Many previous pregnancies (3 or more to mothers under age 20, 4 or more to
mothers age 20 and older)
 Short intervals between pregnancies (< 1 year)
 Previous history of pregnancy-related problems
 Multiple pregnancies e.g. twins or triplets etc
 Low or high birth weight of infants