From conception to the first days of life, early care lays the foundation for a child’s lifelong health. For Dr Sharmina Kamal Binti Shamsul Kamal, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), preparation begins even before a positive pregnancy test.
Main image: With proper support, breastfeeding and early care help give newborns a healthy start in life.
“Good health ideally starts before pregnancy. Women should undergo a medical checkup before pregnancy to detect diabetes, hypertension or any underlying health conditions. If present, these should be optimised early,” she explains.
With diabetes and hypertension rising among young Malaysians, pre-pregnancy screening is becoming a necessity. Undiagnosed or poorly controlled medical conditions can affect both mother and baby. Dr Sharmina also stresses the importance of reviewing medications to ensure they are safe for pregnancy.
Equally critical is folic acid supplementation. “Folic acid is important even before a positive pregnancy test, because the baby’s neural tube develops very early. Starting folic acid before pregnancy offers the mother and baby the best protection from serious neural tube defects.”
Building Strong Foundations During Pregnancy
Each trimester carries unique milestones. The first trimester is the most delicate, as organs begin forming. The second and third trimesters shift towards growth, maturation, and further bonding, as babies begin responding to voices and movement.”
“Diet is often underestimated. If a mother lacks essential nutrients, the baby may also be affected,” Dr Sharmina notes.
Avoiding smoking and alcohol, limiting caffeine, and prioritising balanced nutrition are essential. In Malaysia, iron, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies are frequently seen in expectant mothers.
Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, leaving mothers constantly fatigued and increasing the risk of poor foetal growth. “Meanwhile, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies can weaken the bones of the mother during and after pregnancy,” she adds.
However, supplements should only be taken under medical advice. A balanced diet rich in protein, leafy greens, whole grains and dairy or fortified alternatives remains key.
More than routine check-ups
Antenatal visits are sometimes viewed as routine appointments, but they are far more than that. “These appointments help us ensure the pregnancy is progressing well, detect problems early, and ensure that the baby is developing as expected,” Dr Sharmina emphasises.
Early scans confirm viability and accurate dating. Most women attend monthly reviews until 28 weeks unless closer monitoring is required. Conditions such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes can often be detected before symptoms worsen.
“At each visit, we monitor the baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid to ensure everything remains on track,” she says.
Moderation, Not Restriction when Celebrating Safely
Festive seasons do not mean missing out, but they do require moderation. “Enjoy celebrations, but prioritise balanced meals, avoid alcohol, ensure food is well cooked, and get adequate rest,” Dr Sharmina advises.
Eight to ten hours of sleep, proper hydration and pacing activities help mothers stay well while participating fully.
Recovery and Bonding Soon After Birth
The first hours after delivery are vital. Dr Sharmina encourages immediate skin-to-skin contact which helps stabilise the baby’s blood sugar, supports breastfeeding and strengthens bonding.
Emotionally, many mothers experience temporary “postpartum blues.” About 60 to 80% of postpartum mothers may feel tearful or emotionally sensitive in the first two weeks. However, persistent sadness, withdrawal or worsening symptoms may signal postpartum depression and should prompt medical attention.
Physical recovery also requires monitoring. Increasing pain, fever, poor wound healing or foul-smelling discharge should be reviewed promptly.
During confinement, nourishment is essential. Adequate protein, iron and fluids support healing and milk production. Restricting water intake can increase dehydration and blood clot risks while reducing breast milk supply.
“Mothers should be encouraged to move gently. Circulation improves with movement, just avoid prolonged immobility,” she adds. Family support is best provided by easing household duties so parents can focus on bonding.
Supporting Mothers and Babies After Birth
Breastfeeding offers powerful protection, but many women struggle due to limited support or misinformation. Early milk supply is naturally small, and frequent feeding is necessary to build production. Education, workplace understanding and family encouragement are key.
As families gather, simple steps such as handwashing and limiting close contact when babies are very young can reduce infection risks while preserving meaningful connection.
“With informed choices, medical care, and family support, mothers can enjoy this time and give their children a healthy start,” Dr Sharmina concludes.
Dr Sharmina Kamal Binti Shamsul Kamal,
Obstetrician & Gynaecologist,
Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC)
