From conception through the first days of life, early care lays the foundation for a child’s lifelong health. According to Dr Sharmina Kamal Binti Shamsul Kamal, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), preparation for a healthy pregnancy should ideally begin even before a positive pregnancy test.
She explained that good health ideally starts before pregnancy, and women are encouraged to undergo medical check-ups beforehand to detect conditions such as diabetes, hypertension or any underlying health issues. If present, these conditions should be optimised early. With rising rates of diabetes and hypertension among young Malaysians, pre-pregnancy screening is becoming increasingly important, as undiagnosed or poorly controlled conditions can affect both mother and baby. She also highlighted the importance of reviewing medications to ensure they are safe for pregnancy.
Dr Sharmina further emphasised that folic acid supplementation is equally critical and should begin even before conception. This is because the baby’s neural tube develops very early in pregnancy, and starting folic acid early provides the best protection against serious neural tube defects.
During pregnancy, each trimester brings important developmental milestones. The first trimester is the most delicate as the baby’s organs begin to form, while the second and third trimesters focus on growth, maturation and bonding, as babies begin responding to voices and movement. She noted that diet is often underestimated during this period, yet a lack of essential nutrients in the mother can directly affect the baby’s development.
She advised expectant mothers to avoid smoking and alcohol, limit caffeine intake and prioritise a balanced diet. In Malaysia, iron, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies are commonly seen among pregnant women. Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, causing persistent fatigue and increasing the risk of poor foetal growth, while calcium and vitamin D deficiencies can weaken maternal bone health during and after pregnancy. However, supplements should only be taken under medical supervision, alongside a balanced diet rich in protein, leafy greens, whole grains and dairy or fortified alternatives.
Antenatal visits, she stressed, are far more than routine appointments. These consultations are essential to ensure the pregnancy is progressing well, detect complications early and confirm that the baby is developing as expected. Early scans help determine viability and accurate dating, while regular monthly reviews up to 28 weeks allow close monitoring unless more frequent follow-ups are needed. Conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes can often be detected before symptoms become severe.
During festive seasons, Dr Sharmina encouraged moderation rather than restriction. She advised mothers to enjoy celebrations while prioritising balanced meals, avoiding alcohol, ensuring food is properly cooked and getting adequate rest. Eight to ten hours of sleep, proper hydration and pacing of activities are important to support maternal wellbeing.
After childbirth, the first hours are especially important. She recommended immediate skin-to-skin contact, which helps stabilise the baby’s blood sugar, supports breastfeeding and strengthens early bonding between mother and child.
Emotionally, many mothers may experience temporary postpartum blues, affecting about 60 to 80 per cent of women in the first two weeks after delivery. However, persistent sadness, withdrawal or worsening symptoms may indicate postpartum depression and should be promptly assessed by a medical professional. Physical recovery also requires attention, particularly if there is increasing pain, fever, poor wound healing or foul-smelling discharge.
During confinement, proper nourishment is essential for recovery and milk production. Adequate intake of protein, iron and fluids supports healing, while restricting water intake may increase dehydration, reduce breast milk supply and raise the risk of blood clots. Gentle movement is encouraged to improve circulation, while prolonged immobility should be avoided. Family support is crucial, especially in easing household responsibilities so parents can focus on recovery and bonding with their newborn.
Breastfeeding offers significant benefits, although many mothers face challenges due to limited support or misinformation. Early milk production is naturally small, requiring frequent feeding to establish supply. Education, workplace understanding and family encouragement are key to supporting successful breastfeeding.
As families gather to welcome a newborn, simple practices such as proper hand hygiene and limiting close contact when the baby is very young can help reduce infection risks while still maintaining meaningful family connections.
Dr Sharmina concluded that with informed choices, appropriate medical care and strong family support, mothers can experience a healthier pregnancy journey and provide their children with the best possible start in life.
