Nutrition for pregnant and breastfeeding women

• Attend antenatal care at least four times during pregnancy. These check-ups are important for you to learn about your health and how your baby is growing.
• Know your HIV status, attend all the clinic appointments, and take your medicines as advised by your health provider.
• During your pregnancy, eat one extra small meal or “snack” (extra food between meals) each day to provide energy and nutrients for you and your growing baby.
• During pregnancy and breastfeeding, special nutrients will help your baby grow well and be healthy.
• Take iron-folate tablets to prevent anemia during pregnancy and for at least three months after the birth of your baby.
• Take de-worming tablets to help prevent anemia, as prescribed.
• To prevent malaria, sleep under a long-lasting, insecticide-treated mosquito net and take anti-malarial tablets as prescribed.
• Avoid drinking coffee, tea, and sugary drinks during pregnancy. Drink clean water when you are thirsty         
• You need to eat the best locally available foods, including milk, fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, grains, peas, and beans.
• Take vitamin-A tablets immediately after delivery or within six weeks so that your baby receives the vitamin A in your breastmilk to help prevent illness.
• Use iodised salt to help your baby’s brain and body develop well.

Adolescent mothers:

• You need extra care, more food, and more rest than an older mother.
• You need to nourish your own body, which is still growing, as well as your growing baby’s.
• During breastfeeding, you need to eat two extra small meals or “snacks” (extra food between meals) each day to provide energy and nutrients for you and your growing baby.