Abstain from alcohol, tobacco and drugs . If you have a medical condition warranting medication, risks versus benefits can be discussed with your provider. It is recommended that all women who can become pregnant take a multivitamin containing 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, in addition to including foods rich in folic acid in their diets. Be informed about prenatal testing . Because tests and screenings may vary, it is important to discuss this aspect of care with your provider.
Testing is available to screen for certain birth defects.
Pregnancy in women over age 35 carries increased risk for some chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. All pregnant women should be screened for gestational diabetes between 26 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. Most providers also screen for Group B Strep, a bacteria that can cause infection in the newborn. Maintain a healthy diet . Women who are pregnant need about 300 more calories per day.