Take these measures to help you and your developing fetus stay healthy during pregnancy:

• Visit your doctor or nurse-midwife as soon as you suspect you are pregnant. Keep regular appointments for prenatal checkups and care.
• Tell your doctor or nurse-midwife right away if you notice any symptoms of an infection, such as:
  • Burning during urination.
  • A foul-smelling discharge from your vagina or vaginal itching.
  • Unexplained fever.
  • Tenderness in the pelvis or uterus.
• Do not smoke tobacco, drink alcohol, or use recreational drugs during pregnancy. Some can cause preterm labor, and all are dangerous to you and your developing fetus.¹
• Eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat. Use olive or canola oil in place of other fats or oils. Get lots of whole grains, low-fat dairy, fruits, and vegetables.
• Get regular physical activity.

Take the following precautions to avoid injury during pregnancy:

• Take care to avoid falling. Unstable joints, your expanding abdomen, and your altered center of gravity can make you more unstable on your feet. As your pregnancy progresses, your uterus grows out of the protective circle of the pelvic bones. Some activities, such as bicycling or in-line skating, can increase your risk of falling.
• Do not participate in dangerous sports like horseback riding or motorcycle riding, waterskiing, diving, parachute jumping, or scuba diving.