Tips for a healthy and happy pregnancy
Avoid smoking. Quitting smoking is the single most preventable cause of illness and death among mothers and infants.
Avoid alcohol consumption. When you drink alcohol, so does your developing baby. There is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink while pregnant.
Learn the ins and outs of a healthy pregnancy eating plan. Protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and more are essential.
Take 400 micro grams (mcg) of folic acid every day. Folic acid can help prevent some major birth abnormalities.
Seek help for depression. Depression is common and treatable. If you think you have depression, seek treatment from your health care provider as soon as possible.
Talk to your doctor about traveling. Traveling might cause problems during pregnancy, particularly air travel later in pregnancy, so discuss your options with your doctor.
See your doctor before starting or stopping any medication. If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss your current medicines with your doctor, midwife, or pharmacist.
Get up to date on all of your vaccines. This will help protect you and your developing baby against serious diseases.
Try to reach a weight that is healthy for you before getting pregnant. Having obesity increases the risk for serious birth abnormalities and other pregnancy complications.
Learn about the benefits of breastfeeding. Consider taking a class to help you prepare.