Tips for a healthy and happy pregnancy

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• Avoid smoking. Quitting smoking is the single most preventable cause of illness and death among mothers and infants.

• Avoid alcohol consumption. When you drink alcohol, so does your developing baby. There is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink while pregnant.

• Learn the ins and outs of a healthy pregnancy eating plan. Protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and more are essential.

• Take 400 micro grams (mcg) of folic acid every day. Folic acid can help prevent some major birth abnormalities.

• Seek help for depression. Depression is common and treatable. If you think you have depression, seek treatment from your health care provider as soon as possible.

• Talk to your doctor about traveling. Traveling might cause problems during pregnancy, particularly air travel later in pregnancy, so discuss your options with your doctor.

• See your doctor before starting or stopping any medication. If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss your current medicines with your doctor, midwife, or pharmacist.

• Get up to date on all of your vaccines. This will help protect you and your developing baby against serious diseases.

• Try to reach a weight that is healthy for you before getting pregnant. Having obesity increases the risk for serious birth abnormalities and other pregnancy complications.

• Learn about the benefits of breastfeeding. Consider taking a class to help you prepare.