Prepare for a Healthy Pregnancy

Start Your Healthy Lifestyle

If you’re ready to grow your family, start thinking healthy.

Getting your body ready for pregnancy can take a few months, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Taking care of your health before you get pregnant, also known as preconception health care, increases your chances of having a healthy baby.

Many women don’t realize they’re pregnant for several weeks. Being in good health before your pregnancy can be very beneficial for you and your baby.

If you’re not sure where to start, follow these tips:

• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
• Take prenatal vitamins and folic acid.
• Stop smoking.
• Manage any medical conditions you have.
• Avoid exposure to harmful substances.

Seek Pre-Pregnancy Care

It’s wise to choose a prenatal care provider before you become pregnant. Your provider will advise a pre-pregnancy exam. It’s one of the most important steps you can take for a healthy birth. Your obstetrician, also known as an obgyn, or midwife can perform this exam. It may include:

• A family history of both parents for medical conditions that run in the family
• Testing for possible genetic disorders
• A personal medical history of the mother
• A vaccine check to assess your immunity to rubella since it can cause miscarriages or birth defects
• Screenings for sexually transmitted infections or urinary tract infections

Need to find an obgyn or midwife? Get to know our trusted team of caregivers, made up of obstetricians, including female obgyns and midwives.