Before you get pregnant: A few quick tips

Taking care of your own health is an important first step in preparing for pregnancy. Talk to your physician about taking prenatal vitamins and folic acid. It is recommeded that a woman begin prenatal vitamins and folic acid before discontinuing birth control.

Why should I take folic acid when considering a pregnancy?

Why is taking prenatal vitamins so important before and during pregnancy?

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Good food sources for folic acid include, but are not limited to those listed below.
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Maintaining a healthy lifestyle includes eating a well-balanced diet, exercising and controlling stress.

What type of diet is considered healthy before and during pregnancy?

Avoid consumption of alcohol and smoking, especially during pregnancy.

For more information on alcohol use and pregnancy visit: http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/159_530.asp

For more information on smoking and pregnancy visit: http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/159_155.asp

If you are taking any medications and preparing for pregnancy, contact your healthcare provider and/or call the Pregnancy Risk Network at 800-724-2454 to discuss the potential risks of the medications.

Health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure and seizures may increase the risk for certain birth defects. Some viruses and bacterial infections may also increase the risk for birth defects. Contact your physician to discuss any possible concerns.

For more information on diabetes and pregnancy visit: http://www.diabetes.org/gestational-diabetes.jsp

For more information on high blood pressure and pregnancy visit: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/hbp_preg.htm

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