During the month of April, the Tallahassee Democrat is promoting infant health with news articles, family profiles and maternal health tips.
Most people do not plan their pregnancy, it just happens. Your health problems can become worse in pregnancy if you do not take care of yourself.
Take a vitamin with folic acid every day, even if you are not pregnant. Eat healthy, focusing on a balance of each food group. Adjust your lifestyle if you ingest caffeine, drink alcohol or smoke. Avoid illegal drugs. Know how stress affects your life and consider finding ways to lessen it.
Get to know your body. Be knowledgeable about how pregnancy and the birthing process works. Protect yourself from infection and practice safe sex. Know your health history and talk to your health care provider. Remember, your goal is to have a healthy baby.
Source: Florida Department of Health