Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of change. You will change physically and emotionally, and the day-to-day life of your family will also change. Research shows that the more you are cared for during pregnancy, the better you can care for your newborn. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and accept it when it is offered.
Having a healthy pregnancy can help you have a healthy baby. Eat a nutritious diet, stay active and get plenty of rest. Avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs. And start getting regular checkups as soon as you are pregnant or want to be pregnant.

Exercise and Relaxation

Stay active, but also take time to sit quietly. Exercise and relaxation can help you feel good throughout your pregnancy.

Dental Care

Your teeth and gums need extra care during pregnancy. Women with gum disease are more likely to have a premature baby. So visit your dentist for checkups and brush and floss often. And take prenatal vitamins—the calcium is good for your teeth.

Time to Quit

Smoking, drinking or using drugs can cause babies to be born premature or with serious problems. Many women who’ve wanted to quit find that now they can. If you need help to stop, don’t hesitate to ask for it. The sooner you stop the better, but whenever you stop, you will help your baby.

Things You Can Do

Where to Find Help

Learn More

Food and Nutrition

The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program offers classes and counseling on nutrition and breastfeeding, both before and after the birth. It also helps you get healthy food. To see if you qualify, call your county Health Department or WIC Works. Visit
www.wicworks.ca.gov

Prenatal Care

Madison shares in the wonder of her mother’s pregnancy.

You may be able to get free or low-cost prenatal care. Ask about Emergency Medi-Cal. Call your county Health Department or BabyCal.
For low-cost health insurance for pregnant women with low or middle incomes, call AIM Program.
When you visit the doctor, tell her all the medications or supplements you take.

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