Before pregnancy
Thinking about getting pregnant?
A developing baby is very vulnerable during the early days, often before you even know you are pregnant. If you are planning a pregnancy, talk to your health care provider about ways to have a healthy pregnancy.
Not right now?
Not planning on having children? Your overall health and well-being are still important. It is also important to practice safe sex to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections and find birth control options that are right for you.
Maybe someday?
Are you thinking about having a baby someday? This is a great time to work on creating and maintaining positive health habits—such as healthy eating, exercise, getting enough sleep, folic acid (The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada)—and making sure your immunizations are up to date. Developing positive health habits now will help to promote a healthy pregnancy when you are ready!
Use birth control and practice safe sex until you are ready to get pregnant, to reduce your chances of becoming infected with a sexually transmitted infection.
I’m ready now!
You have made the decision to have a baby. There are many things to consider to help plan for the healthiest baby possible. Positive health habits, such as healthy eating, exercise, and sleep, are important factors in a healthy pregnancy (The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada).
It is also important that you limit your exposure to harmful substances such as cannabis, tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs.
All individuals who could become pregnant need a vitamin supplement with 0.4 mg of folic acid every day. Taking a folic acid supplement before and during your pregnancy will reduce the risks of some birth defects, according to The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.
Making sure your vaccinations are up to date will help keep you and your baby healthy. This is especially important if you plan on travelling while pregnant.
This item was last modified on October 3, 2024