Caring for two:
Immunize early
Sometimes the simplest steps are also the most
important. A good example is getting immunized
against potentially harmful diseases—an especially
important thing to do if you’re planning to become
pregnant.
Some diseases that can harm your baby if you
get them while you’re pregnant—such as German
measles—can be prevented if you have the right
immunizations ahead of time.
Talk to your doctor if you’re thinking about having a
baby. Your doctor can make sure you’re up-to-date with
your vaccinations. Some vaccines, such as the flu shot,
can be given safely during pregnancy. But others, such
as the chickenpox vaccine, need to be given at least
four weeks before you become pregnant.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; March of Dimes
Baby
on
the way?
YOU’VE CHECKED
and double-checked—and
then checked again just to be sure. And all the home
pregnancy tests agree: You’re pregnant.
Now it’s time for a flurry of phone calls to share the
news with family and friends. Just be sure at least one of
those calls is to your doctor’s office—it’s time to make an
appointment for your first prenatal checkup.
The best start
Prenatal checkups are essential for both you and your
baby. Getting regular prenatal care can:
w
Help you have a healthy baby.
w
Decrease your risk of having your baby too early.
w
Help your doctor find and treat potential problems early.
In general, you’ll have about one prenatal checkup per
month for the first several months of pregnancy. As you
get closer to your due date—or if you have any health
conditions that need to be monitored more closely—you’ll
need more frequent checkups.
During prenatal visits, your doctor may:
w
Determine the baby’s due date.
w
Check the baby’s heartbeat and growth.
w
Check your weight and blood pressure.
w
Check you for problems, such as anemia, infections and
gestational diabetes.
w
Talk to you about some essential healthy habits, such as
eating well, getting enough folic acid, and not smoking
or drinking during your pregnancy.
w
Answer your questions and concerns.
Plan for a healthy pregnancy
If you are already pregnant, prenatal care is best started
right away. Call your doctor
for an appointment as
soon as you think
you’re pregnant.
Sources: American College of
Obstetricians and Gynecologists;
National Institutes of Health;
March of Dimes
To make an
appointment, call
715-623-2351.
4
Pathways •
