Thinking of Becoming Pregnant?

If you’re thinking of starting a family, it’s not too soon to make sure you’re in good health. The demands a pregnancy places on your body are dramatic. And don’t forget, once you’re pregnant, everything you do will be affecting the two of you. So it’s important that you get off to a good start.

For instance, did you know that a baby's organs begin to form in the first few weeks of pregnancy-- before you may even know you’re pregnant? This is a critical phase of development. That’s why the more planning you do, the better off you’ll both be.  And, while there are no guarantees for having a healthy baby, there are many things you can do that may improve your chances of a good outcome.

Some basic steps include:

• Talk to your primary care physician or ob-gyn about your plans. They can give you steps specific to you.
• As with all expectant mothers, folic acid is extremely important. Taking folic acid one month prior to and throughout the first three months of pregnancy will decrease the risk of neural tube defects (such as spina bifida).
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages while trying to conceive. Any alcohol early in your pregnancy is too much! It can jeopardize your baby's development.
• Learn your and your partner's family health history, and review it with your physician.
• Start an exercise program! Just getting off the couch and walking for 20 to 30 minutes a day is a good start.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• If you smoke – stop! And avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.

For more information on steps you can take to prepare for pregnancy, just click on the following links:

Pregnancy and Newborn Center 

American Pregnancy Association

Baby Center

Centers for Disease