Moms-to-Be: Protect Your Baby Now
If a baby is in your future — even if you’re just thinking about getting pregnant — there’s a lot you can do now to help ensure a worry-free pregnancy and delivery and a healthy newborn. Are you on the right track? Find out by going through the checklists below.
Preparing Your Body
If you’re trying to get pregnant or will start trying soon, it’s time to get your health in order. Check off the steps you’ve taken — or are currently taking — to help prepare for a healthy pregnancy:- I’ve talked with my doctor about getting pregnant, and we’ve reviewed my medical history, my current health and the medicines I take.
- I’m keeping my weight in a healthy range.
- My healthcare team and I are working to get any ongoing medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, under good control.
- I eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly and get enough sleep.
- I’ve updated my vaccines, including rubella.
- Every day, I take a multivitamin that contains 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid.
Choosing Wisely While Pregnant
When you’re pregnant, everything that affects your body affects your baby. Making careful, healthy choices every day for nine months may not be easy, but your baby is worth the effort. Check off the doctor-recommended steps that you’re following now: I see my doctor regularly for prenatal checkups.
I don’t smoke, drink alcohol or take illegal drugs.
I only use medications that my doctor has approved — including nonprescription medicines and herbal supplements.
I take 400 mcg of folic acid every day.
I get about 30 minutes of gentle exercise daily, as recommended by my doctor.
My meals include plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, lean protein and foods rich in calcium.
When I feel my stress level rising, I take time out to relax.
lead to an external site |