I'm Pregnant. Now What?
To protect your baby, follow these tips:
- Schedule your first prenatal appointment with a prenatal care provider. Click here for a list of local prenatal care providers.
- Do not drink alcohol, smoke or use illegal drugs. Click here for healthy pregnancy resources.
- Make a list of your prescription drugs and notify your doctor (or NP, PA, etc. the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication) of your pregnancy to make sure they are safe to take during pregnancy. Do not stop taking your medications without talking to your doctor first.
- Get tested and treated for sexually transmitted infections. Click here for a list of local resources under Sexual Health and Wellness
- Drink plenty of water/ fluids and maintain a healthy diet. Click here to learn more. Ask your doctor about taking a prenatal vitamin which contains folic acid.
- Consider your stress level. Practice stress relieving exercises. If you are experiencing a lack of stable food, housing, transportation or safety. Dial “211” and hit send to be connected to local resources or click here under support programs.
Keep baby safe by learning the ABCs of safe sleep. After you participate in education, you can pick up your new Pack ’n Play (crib) and gift bag. Families must be WIC eligible, in the last trimester of their pregnancy or have a new baby up to 1 year.
The safest way for baby to sleep: Alone. Back. Crib. – the ABCs of safe sleep. Click here to learn more.
Breastfeeding has health benefits for both babies and mothers. Breast milk provides a baby with ideal nutrition and supports growth and development. Breastfeeding can also help protect baby and mom against certain illnesses and diseases.
An array of breastfeeding resources and support is available.
Click here for access to the Ohio statewide breastfeeding hotline.
For breastfeeding classes, lactation consultants, hospital lactation assistance, click here.
