Thinking About Getting Pregnant?

A healthy pregnancy starts with these steps, according to the CDC:

*  Take a vitamin with 400 micrograms (mcg) folic acid every day. Read the label.

*  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 about any medical problems (such as obesity, diabetes, seizures) 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, get early prenatal care and go to every appointment.