Pregnancy Basics
Pregnancy can seem overwhelming. Lots of people have advice to give and sometimes it isn’t the same! There are a few basic things that are important when you are pregnant. This checklist will help make sure you are on the right track.
Pregnancy Checklist (Get a printable version here)
- Attend prenatal appointments with your Nurse, Doctor or Midwife regularly – they will tell you important things that you need to know, make sure any medication you are on is safe and help make sure that your baby is growing well and is healthy
- Take your prenatal vitamin every day (make sure it contains folic acid and iron)
- Eat a variety of foods from the four food groups, especially country foods every day
- Limit chips, pop, candy and other junk food – they don’t give you and your baby what is needed
- Drink fluids – aim for at least 8 cups a day. Water and milk are great choices
- Do not drink alcohol or take drugs – they can cause damage to your baby's brain
- Avoid smoking – smoking produces harmful chemicals that make it hard for your baby to get enough oxygen and nutrients
- From October to April, take an extra Vitamin D pill – you need 400 IU extra per day for a total of 800 IU (in addition to your prenatal vitamin) in the North
- Take care of yourself – try to limit the amount of stress in your life as best as you can and take at least a few minutes each day alone to relax. Get enough rest.
- Be active every day, choosing activities you enjoy
For a very detailed look at pregnancy and what to expect while you are pregnant check out Healthy Pregnancy, Healthy Baby.
If you aren’t able to do something on this list, ask a CPNP Worker, Nutritionist or Nurse for some help.