During the coming months you will be experiencing many changes as your body changes and your baby grows and develops. This checklist will help you make this a healthy time for you and your baby.

• See a physician to begin prenatal care.
• Eat healthy foods daily.
• Exercise daily.
• Make healthy lifestyle decisions such as:
• Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco and smoke-filled rooms;
• Stop any illegal drug use including cocaine, speed, heroin and marijuana. All of these drugs can have very harmful effects on your developing baby. If you are using any drugs (prescription or non-prescription,) be sure to discuss it with your physician immediately;
• Avoid alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and hard liquor;
• Avoid caffeine intake including coffee, tea, soft drinks and chocolate.

• Check with your physician before taking any medications – prescription or over-the-counter medication including aspirin, cold medications and ibuprofen.
• Always wear a seat belt when riding in a car. Buckle lap belt under your abdomen and use the shoulder belt.
• Talk with your health care provider about using hot tubs or tanning beds.
• Avoid exposure to toxoplasmosis, a disease carried by cats and in raw meat. Wear gloves when working in the garden, do not change cat litter boxes, and cook all meats thoroughly before eating.
• Seek help when you are feeling a lot of stress or are having difficulty coping with a situation.
• Call your physician immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Be alert to these warning signs during pregnancy:

1. Vaginal bleeding.
2. Swelling or puffiness of the face, fingers or feet.
3. Severe or continuous headache.
4. Disturbances of vision: double, blurring, spots or flashes.
5. Unusual or severe abdominal pain.
6. Persistent vomiting or nausea.
7. Chills or fever over 100 degrees F.
8. Pain or burning sensation when urinating.
9. Leaking fluid (not mucus) from the vagina. Note the time, amount and color.
10. Noticeable reduction in baby's activity.
11. Dizziness, light-headed feeling.

• Irritating vaginal discharge, genital sores or itching
• Ask your baby's father or a support person to accompany you to classes and support you in your healthy lifestyle decisions. Share your feelings as you progress through these months.

For more information on Your Pregnancy, visit our Brochure section for printable versions of our Childbirth Center brochures and Maternity Calendar.