Parents, relatives and caregivers that smoke around newborns increase the baby's chances of contracting asthma down the road. Stop drinking alcohol. No amount of alcohol is considered safe in pregnancy, but excessive wine, beer or cocktails can cause fetal alcohol syndrome, which can result in small size, abnormal facial appearance, a small head, mental retardation, and behavioral abnormalities in the child. Eat well and don't try to lose weight while pregnant. Take vitamins, especially folic acid.
Folic acid can prevent spina bifida when taken in the early days of pregnancy.
If you're even thinking of getting pregnant, now is a great time to start taking folic acid. While folic acid is also found in leafy green and yellow vegetables, the best source for effectiveness in preventing spinal abnormalities is the tablet form. Talk to your midwife or doctor about any vitamins you are already taking. Too much Vitamin A can cause birth defects. Don't change the cat litter box or work in your garden without wearing gloves.