Pre-Pregnancy
Are you planning to have a baby? Before you get pregnant, consider the following:
See Your Doctor
Your healthcare provider can help you to plan a safe, healthy course for your pregnancy. Your doctor will need to know if you are taking any medications, whether prescription, herbs, or other over-the-counter. Discuss stabilization or control of current medical conditions such as diabetes. Getting a complete physical exam, including pap smear and breast exam, as well as discussing your immunization status and stabilizing any medical conditions will help to plan for a healthy pregnancy.
Stopping Birth Control
If you are using birth control, ask your healthcare provider when to stop. It is recommended that birth control pills be stopped two to three months before you would like to become pregnant. This gives your body time to get back to its regular cycle. Use condoms and a spermicide during that time.
Take a Folic Acid Supplement
A vitamin called folic acid can reduce the risk of spinal cord defects, such as spina bifida. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends that all women think about getting pregnant should get 400 micrograms of folic acid every day . You can get folic acid by taking a folic acid vitamin preparation each day for approximately one month before you get pregnant through the first weeks the baby is growing. You can also get your folic acid through food (such as enriched breads, pastas, rice & cereals, for example), however it takes careful planning to make sure you get enough every day.
Your Weight
If you want to gain or lose weight, do it now. Start your pregnancy at an average weight for your height.
Exercising
Most women who exercise before pregnancy can continue to do so until the baby is born. Start now. It's easier to keep doing an activity you already enjoy.
Smoking Cigarettes
It's time to quit! Smoking cigarettes during pregnancy can slow your baby's growth. It can also cause birth to occur too early.
Alcohol/Drug Use
Drinking alcohol and using drugs not approved by your physician during pregnancy can harm your baby. Avoid the use of any drugs unless specifically approved by your doctor.
