Get a Pre-Conception Checkup.Before you conceive, see your doctor and discuss your plans. Ask what you can do to get ready for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Get Regular Exercise.Getting regular, moderate-intensity exercise may actually increase your chances of getting pregnant. Try walking, bicycling, or gardening.
Is It OK to Drink Alcohol?It's best to avoid drinking while you're trying to conceive. That way you won't expose your baby to alcohol before you know you're pregnant.
Get a Flu Shot!It's safe for you -- and recommended. Being pregnant puts you at higher risk of serious flu complications. So get a flu shot to protect yourself and your baby.
When Should You See a Doctor?It's never too soon! If you know you're pregnant or think you might be, make an appointment. Early prenatal care protects your baby's health.
Looking for an OB?Find a doctor you are comfortable with, so you'll feel more confident and relaxed during your pregnancy. Learn how to find the right OB for you.
Start Prenatal Visits.Between weeks 4 and 28 of your pregnancy, you should see your doctor once a month. It's a good chance to ask questions and follow your baby's growth.
Stay Away From Soft Cheese.Avoid cheese made from raw or unpasteurized milk. This includes most soft cheeses. They may carry organisms that can harm your baby.
Can't Keep Anything Down?If you have severe morning sickness, you may need medical treatment. Call your doctor if you vomit almost every time you eat or can't keep water down.
Who Will Deliver Your Baby?Still can't decide between a midwife and doctor? Consider whether you want to give birth at a birth center or a hospital. That may help you choose.
Watch the Heat.A high body temperature can harm your baby, especially in the first weeks of your pregnancy. Limit sauna and hot tub use to less than 10 minutes.
Exercise 150 Minutes a Week.With your doctor's OK, do low-impact exercise like yoga, swimming, or walking for a half-hour most days. Learn about safe exercising during pregnancy.
Should You "Eat for Two"?You don't literally need to "eat for two." You only need about 300 extra calories a day to meet your baby's needs. Get them from nutrient-rich foods.
Is Your Bra Getting Tight?Buy a maternity or nursing bra for extra support and comfort. Choose a soft cup with a little "give" for tender nipples and fluctuating breast size.
Guess What? I'm Pregnant!Decide with your partner when to share the great news. Some women wait until after the first trimester, when the risk of miscarriage goes down.
Can't Ever Get Enough Sleep?If chronic insomnia makes you drag through the day, ask your doctor if you can take a sleep aid. But don't take any meds without your doctor's OK.
Catch Some Daytime ZZZs.Try napping during the day when you can't get enough sleep at night. Take one or two short naps (30-60 minutes) -- just don't snooze too close to bedtime.
Keep Dates With the Dentist.Dental checkups are even more important now. You're at higher risk for gum disease, which can affect your baby's health. Tell the dentist you're pregnant.
Choose Something Comfortable.Tight clothes may cause back pain, swelling, varicose veins, and heartburn. And they're uncomfortable! Loosen up. Your pregnant body will thank you.
Downsize to Avoid Heartburn.Try eating several small meals a day instead of three big ones. When your stomach is full, it may push more acids up the esophagus and cause heartburn.
Soothe Your Skin.Use a moisturizer to ease itchiness and keep your skin soft. But avoid products that claim to reduce stretch marks -- some are not safe in pregnancy.
