The More You Know

HEALTHY PRENATAL CARE

"Hey Mama. Got a baby on the way? Then you need to take care of yourself by eating right and staying active. Talk with your doctor and speak up for that little person inside you.." - Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation

The Importance of Care During Pregnancy

The key to having a healthy baby is taking good care of your own health. The healthier you are, the stronger you and your baby are likely to be. Health care is extremely important for your baby's development, whether you are in your first pregnancy or your third.

Babies of mothers who do not get prenatal care are three times more likely to have a low birth weight and five times more likely to die than those born to mothers who do get care.

When Should Prenatal Care Begin?

If you know you're pregnant, or think you might be, call your doctor to schedule a visit. Stay safe with getting early prenatal care. Your doctor will check to make sure you and the baby are healthy at each visit. If there are any problems, early action will help you and the baby.

Next, start a routine of regular prenatal care. Your doctor will schedule you for many checkups over the course of your pregnancy. Don't miss any appointments, because each one is important!

The Time to Start Prenatal Care is Now

In addition to talking to your physician about your baby's development in the womb, don't forget to start and continue healthy habits in your lifestyle.

• Don't smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs. These can cause long-term harm or even death to your baby. Ask your doctor for help quitting.
• Eat a variety of healthy foods. Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, calcium-rich foods and foods low in saturated fat. Also, make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
• Ask your doctor before stopping any medication or starting any new medication. Some medication is not safe during pregnancy.
• If you have a medical condition, be sure it is under control. Some conditions include asthma, diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, obesity, thyroid disease or epilepsy.
• Unless your doctor tells you not to, try to get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week. It's best to spread out your workouts throughout the week.

Furthermore, take action to give your baby the best health possible before birth:

• Get a seasonal flu shot if your baby's due date is between March and July. Pregnant women can get very sick from the flu and may need hospital care.
• Take in 400 micrograms (400 mcg or 0.4 mg) of folic acid every day for at least 3 months before getting pregnant to lower your baby's risk of some birth defects of the brain and spine.

Are you a prenatal care wiz? Take the "Pregnancy Know-How" quiz at womenshealth.gov! Click here to test your knowledge.

To Know More...

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.healthfinder.gov