Nutrition in Pregnancy: What’s Safe to Eat?
Diet plays a huge role in a healthy pregnancy and it’s normal to wonder about which foods are safe.
Can pregnant women eat prawns?
Yes, as long as prawns are cooked thoroughly, they are safe in pregnancy. Prawns provide protein and omega-3 fatty acids, both important for your baby’s development. Always avoid raw or undercooked seafood to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Many women also choose supplements to support their diet:
- Pregnacare Conception – Taken while trying for a baby to prepare the body with essential nutrients
- Pregnacare Vitamins – Designed to support women throughout pregnancy with folic acid, iron, and key vitamins for mum and baby.
Understanding Pregnancy Progression
Pregnancy is divided into three stages, known as the trimesters of pregnancy:
- First trimester – Weeks 1–12
- Second trimester – Weeks 13–27
- Third trimester – Weeks 28–40
Common milestones include:
- 24 weeks pregnant in months = About 6 months pregnant
- 25 weeks pregnant in months = Just over 6 months, moving into the later part of the second trimester
This stage is especially exciting, as many women feel stronger baby movements and attend regular antenatal appointments.
Learning and Preparation
Preparing for birth is about both physical and mental readiness. Many expectant parents join antenatal classes (often free through the NHS) where you can learn about:
- Labour and delivery
- Pain relief options
- Breastfeeding
- Newborn care
These classes also provide a chance to meet other parents-to-be and feel more confident ahead of your baby’s arrival.
Financial Planning and NHS Support
Pregnancy also involves financial planning and understanding your rights at work.
How long is maternity leave UK?
Statutory maternity leave in the UK is up to 52 weeks:
- 26 weeks Ordinary Maternity Leave
- 26 weeks Additional Maternity Leave
How much is maternity pay UK?
- Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is usually paid for up to 39 weeks.
- First 6 weeks = 90% of average weekly earnings.
- Following 33 weeks = fixed rate or 90% (whichever is lower).
NHS Maternity Pay
If you work for the NHS, you may qualify for enhanced NHS maternity pay, which can include a period of full pay followed by reduced pay, depending on your length of service. The NHS maternity pay calculator can give you a personalised estimate.
Maternity Exemption Certificate
Don’t forget to apply for your maternity exemption certificate, which gives you free NHS prescriptions and dental treatment during pregnancy and for 12 months after your baby is born
FAQs on Pregnancy Planning, Nutrition & NHS Support
1. Can pregnant women eat prawns in the UK?
Yes, prawns are safe if they are cooked properly. Avoid raw or undercooked seafood.
2. What are Pregnacare Conception and Pregnacare Vitamins?
Pregnacare Conception supports women trying to conceive, while Pregnacare Vitamins provide key nutrients throughout pregnancy.
3. How long is maternity leave in the UK?
You can take up to 52 weeks: 26 weeks Ordinary Maternity Leave + 26 weeks Additional Maternity Leave.
4. How much is maternity pay UK?
SMP is paid for up to 39 weeks: 90% of your earnings for 6 weeks, then a set rate or 90% (whichever is lower). NHS maternity pay may be higher depending on your contract.
5. What is a maternity exemption certificate?
It entitles you to free NHS prescriptions and dental care during pregnancy and up to one year after your baby’s birth.
6. How many months pregnant am I at 24 or 25 weeks?
At 24 weeks, you’re about 6 months pregnant. At 25 weeks, you’re just over 6 months, nearing the end of the second trimester.