• Knowledgebase: First Time Parenting 101

    Information for first time parents

    3. Before getting pregnant- Think Ahead - Top

    Think Ahead: from the March of Dimes
    http://www.modimes.org/HealthLibrary2/HealthyBaby/think.htm

    If you're thinking about having a baby now or in the future, there are things you can do before you conceive to help your baby be born healthy. It's important to keep in mind that you could be pregnant for several weeks before you even realize it. During those early weeks, your baby's vital organs are beginning to form. This is a crucial time so it's important that you be prepared for this possibility in order to give your baby the best chance for a healthy start in life.

    If you're trying to become pregnant -- or if you could become pregnant unexpectedly -- it pays to THINK AHEAD and follow these steps.

    Take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before conception and in early pregnancy. All women of childbearing age should take a daily multivitamin containing folic acid as part of a healthy diet containing foods fortified with folic acid such as fortified breakfast cereals, and foods containing natural sources of folic acid. Natural sources include orange juice, peanuts, green leafy vegetables, beans, broccoli, asparagus, peas, lentils, and enriched grain products.

    Have a medical checkup before conceiving so your health care provider can evaluate your health and identify any health risks.

    If you're not immune to chicken pox and rubella, check with your health care provider about getting vaccinated before you conceive.

    Now's the time to achieve your ideal weight. Being over- or underweight may cause problems during pregnancy.

    Know your family history. If you've had problem pregnancies or birth defects in your family, you should talk to your health care provider and/or a genetic counselor when appropriate.

    Adopt a healthy lifestyle and get plenty of exercise. Avoid alcohol, smoking or second hand smoke, or use illicit drugs. Ask your health care provider if the prescription or over-the-counter drugs you use are safe to take during pregnancy and in the pre-pregnancy period.

    Have medical problems like diabetes, epilepsy and high blood pressure treated and under control before you get pregnant.

    Eat a nutritious and balanced diet.

    Avoid exposure to toxic substances and chemicals -- such as cleaning solvents, lead and mercury, some insecticides, paint thinners and removers, etc. -- at home and where you work.

    Don't eat undercooked meat or handle cat litter. They can cause toxoplasmosis, which can seriously harm a developing fetus.

    For more information, see the March of Dimes Resource Center.
    - Updated: March 12, 2008

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    • James L Horwitz, MD

    David C. Thomas, MD

    Barbara Lindberg, PNP