Before You Get Pregnant (Planning Your Pregnancy & Child Spacing)
Put your Baby First... Right From the Start! It's important to plan your pregnancy and to be as healthy as possible before you get pregnant. Also, your births should be spaced at least 18 - 24 months apart for both your health and the health of your baby.
The Importance of Folic Acid
- Folic acid is a B vitamin that, when 400 micrograms daily is taken before pregnancy, has been proven to prevent serious birth defects such as spina bifida. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 70 percent of neural tube defects could be prevented if women took folic acid. Current research also indicates that folic acid may help prevent heart disease, stroke, and some forms of cancer.
- Helpful Links
- Folic Acid (Indiana State Department of Health Program)
- Indiana Family Health Council: Information on selecting a contraceptive to fit your needs, preventative healthcare and how to stay healthy.
- March of Dimes: Before You're Pregnant
Pregnancy (Family) Planning Services - Helpful Links
- Indiana Family Health Council: Information on selecting a contraceptive to fit your needs, preventative healthcare and how to stay healthy.
- March of Dimes: Before You're Pregnant
- Planned Parenthood Services: Reproductive health care services and information.
Symptoms of Pregnancy
Early (first 6 to 8 weeks) signs and symptoms of pregnancy:
- Missed period (although some women still have spotting)
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Increased sensitivity to odors
- Food aversions or food cravings
- Tender or swollen breasts; darkening of nipples
- Sleepiness, fatigue or exhaustion
- Frequent urination
- Slightly increased temperature
