Steps Women Can Take for Healthier Babies

Here are some steps a woman can take to get ready for a healthy pregnancy:

· Take a vitamin with 400 micrograms (mcg) folic acid every day.

· Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and street drugs.

· Keep hands clean by washing them often with soap and water to prevent infections.

· See a health care professional regularly. Talk with the healthcare professional about any medical problems (such as obesity, diabetes, seizures, etc.) and medicine use (both prescription and over-the-counter).

· Ask about avoiding any substances at work or at home that might be harmful to a developing baby.

· Eat a healthy, balanced diet.

· Avoid unpasteurized (raw) milk and foods made from it.

· Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat.

While pregnant:

· Keep up these healthy habits.

· Get early prenatal care and go to every appointment.

Want to know more?

Ask your healthcare professional or contact the Harnett County Department of Public Health 910-893-7550 on how to plan for a healthy baby.

For more information http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HealthyPregnancy/