The foetus depends on the mother
A foetus grows inside the uterus and gets everything it needs from the mother's blood through the placenta. Because of this, whatever the mother eats, drinks or breathes can reach the foetus. So the mother's health and habits are very important.
Factors that help healthy development
- Balanced diet — the mother should eat healthy food with enough protein, vitamins and minerals for the foetus to grow.
- Enough rest and exercise — gentle activity and good sleep keep the mother and foetus healthy.
- Regular health checks — visits to the clinic help make sure the foetus is growing well.
Factors that can harm the foetus
- Smoking — harmful gases reduce the oxygen the foetus receives.
- Alcohol and drugs — these can pass to the foetus and slow its development or cause defects.
- Some diseases — certain infections in the mother can affect the foetus.
- Poor diet — too little healthy food means the foetus does not grow well.
Key idea
Because the foetus shares the mother's blood through the placenta, a healthy mother helps a healthy baby. Smoking, alcohol and drugs can harm the foetus.
Remember
- A balanced diet, rest and health checks help the foetus.
- Smoking, alcohol and drugs can harm the foetus.
- Whatever reaches the mother's blood can reach the foetus.