Planning to Become Pregnant?

Even before you get pregnant there are things you can do to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the changes that will occur.

To help ensure a healthy pregnancy, follow these pre-pregnancy guidelines:

Schedule a preconception appointment with your doctor
Get a thorough physical and provide your doctor with a comprehensive medical history to optimize your chances for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Take a multivitamin with 400 micrograms of Folic Acid, and a B vitamin
Both help prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord.

Consider meeting with a certified genetic counselor
Based upon you and your partner’s history, a genetic counselor can identify any potential inherited conditions, and help you understand information potential birth defects.

Improve your diet
Start eliminating junk food, caffeine and alcohol from your diet.

Get in shape
Exercising will help with the demands of carrying and delivering a baby.

If you smoke...
Stop smoking.