DRUGS

• As soon as you think you are going to have a baby, talk to your doctor about safe drugs.
• Only use drugs that your doctor says you can use.
• Drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines can hurt the baby inside you.
• Using drugs can cause: still birth, growth problems, low birth-weight babies, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS),  heart problems, behavior problems, birth defects

SMOKING

• Smoking can stop blood flowing from a mother to her unborn baby.
• The baby can't get food or get rid of waste.
• A smoking women may not put on weight while pregnant, and this hurts the baby trying to grow inside her.
• If you smoke, you could have a low birth weight baby.
• A low birth weight baby has many health risks.
• Increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
• Behavioral problems as a toddler.
• Learning disabilities as a school age child.

DIETING

Some popular diets are not good for a women having a baby. Some examples are low sugar diets, high meat diets, diets where you don't eat and liquid meat diets. If you are heavy at the same time you are having a baby, do not try new diets and do not take off weight.

• A women on a diet may cause her baby to be smaller and lighter in weight.
• Dieting during pregnancy, even for a short time, is harmful to your unborn baby.
• If you don't eat meat, you may need help in planning your meals.
• It's important to include milk, other dairy foods and eggs in your diet. These foods are good substitutes for meat.
• Talk to a doctor or registered dietitian about the food you eat.
• Most foods from the Food Guide Pyramid should have plenty of vitamins and other things needed for the good health of you and your baby.
• If you are having a baby, your doctor may want you to have extra vitamins in your diet.
• If you are having a baby, think about what you eat and drink.

A good start is important for your unborn baby.

Courtesy of the Ohio State University Extension