The key to preparing for a healthy birth is take care of your own health. The healthier you are, the healthier your baby will be. Below are suggestions you can use to optimize your health during pregnancy.

Eat a healthy diet.
A healthy diet is vital for a healthy pregnancy. It's the best thing you can do for your baby's mind and body. It will also make you strong and ready for labor, delivery, and breastfeeding. Ask your medical provider about specific nutritional guidelines.

Get plenty of exercise.
Walking and swimming can help strengthen your body for your pregnancy and delivery. Be sure to consult with your medical provider about your exercise plans to be sure you're not overdoing it.

Get plenty of rest.
Be sure to get enough sleep and avoid as much stress as you can.

Avoid alcohol and other drugs.
Prescription drugs, alcohol, illegal drugs, caffeine, cigarettes, and even over-the-counter drugs can be harmful to the developing fetus. Check with your medical provider before you take any medications or substances or if you're concerned about something you've already taken during your pregnancy. After a baby is born, you should talk to your medical provider about medications, including birth control options, and their potential impact on breastfeeding.

Try to avoid infections.
Certain infections such as bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections can be more harmful during your pregnancy than when you are not pregnant. Be sure to talk with your medical provider if you think you have an infection or if you experience recurrent infections so that you can get treatments that are safe for you and your baby.

See your medical provider frequently.
It is important to check in with your medical provider regularly. If your medical provider believes you have a "low" risk pregnancy, you can expect to visit them at least once a month for the first 7 months, every 2 or 3 weeks for the 8th month, and weekly during the 9th month until delivery. If you have a "high" risk pregnancy, if this is your first baby, or if you have other health issues that need to be monitored, you can expect to see your medical provider more frequently.

Call if you experience any symptoms.
Know the signs of premature labor and any warning signs that something might be wrong with your pregnancy. Symptoms to be aware of include:

• Sudden weight gain of more than 2 pounds within 1 day

• Severe swelling of the ankles, legs, or feet

• Severe or repeated headaches that last more than 2 or 3 hours and are not relieved with the medication your clinician has recommended

• Fainting

• Blurred vision, flashes of light, or spots before your eyes

• Pain or burning with urination

• Marked increase in thirst with little urination for an entire day

• Unusual smelling vaginal discharge

• Light vaginal bleeding or spotting

It is important to call your medical provider if you have any of these warning signs.