Health Tip: Get Healthy Before Pregnancy

Health Tip: Get Healthy Before Pregnancy

(HealthDay News) — Planning to become pregnant? Now is the time to get your body in shape and ready for baby.

The womenshealth.gov website offers this pre-conception advice:

  • Take a folic acid supplement every day to help lower the risk of having a baby with birth defects.
  • Avoid alcohol, and quit smoking.
  • Maintain good control of any chronic medical condition, such as diabetes, asthma or epilepsy.
  • Get all recommended vaccinations.
  • Check with your doctor about the safety of your medications, vitamins and herbal supplements.
  • Avoid exposure to toxic chemicals or substances.