Healthy Diet, Smoking, Alcohol, and Medication Use During Pregnancy — What You Need to Know

Why health choices during pregnancy matter

Pregnancy is a time of change, planning, and care. What you eat, how you treat your body, and how medicines are used can affect both your health and your baby’s development. The goal is not perfection — it is informed, supported, realistic care guided by trusted medical advice.

Eating well for you and your baby

A balanced diet supports energy, healthy growth, and overall wellbeing in pregnancy. Most people benefit from a variety of nutritious foods including vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, lean protein, healthy fats, iron-rich foods, and calcium-supporting options. Some foods need to be limited or avoided to reduce infection or contamination risk. Your GP or maternity team can help tailor advice to your health, culture, preferences, and nutritional needs.

Smoking and vaping during pregnancy

Smoking increases the risk of complications such as growth restriction, prematurity, placental problems, and breathing issues for the baby. Vaping and exposure to second-hand smoke may also carry risks. Support is available, and stopping at any point in pregnancy can make a positive difference. Your GP can help explore safe, compassionate quit-support options without judgement.

Alcohol and pregnancy

Alcohol can affect a baby’s brain and development. The safest approach is to avoid alcohol during pregnancy and while trying to conceive. If you are concerned about alcohol use, early conversations with your GP are confidential and aimed at support, not blame.

Medication use and safety

Many medicines are safe in pregnancy, but others are not. Some over-the-counter remedies, herbal products, and supplements may also carry risks. Always check with your GP, pharmacist, or maternity provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you take long-term medicines for chronic conditions, do not stop suddenly — seek advice so care is adjusted safely.

Mental wellbeing matters too

Pregnancy can bring emotional changes as well as physical ones. Anxiety, low mood, stress, and worry are common. Caring for mental health is part of pregnancy care. Your GP can support you, provide reassurance, screen for concerns, and arrange additional help if needed.

Partnering with your healthcare team

No one is expected to manage pregnancy alone. Your GP, midwife, and specialist team are there to help with nutrition guidance, smoking and alcohol support, medication safety checks, and emotional wellbeing. Honest conversation helps create plans that are safe, realistic, and compassionate.

If you feel unsure or overwhelmed, you are not alone — support is available, and small, guided changes can make a meaningful difference.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.