Birth Defects Prevention Month

January is Birth Defects Prevention Month in the US. Materials have been developed by the Education and Outreach Committee of the National Birth Defects Prevention Network. In the pamphlet titled "Important Information About Preventing Birth Defects," they highlight the following steps a woman can take to get ready for a healthy pregnancy:

• Take a vitamin with 400 micrograms (mcg) folic acid every day.
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and street drugs.
• Keep hands clean by washing them often with soap and water to prevent infections.
• See a health care professional regularly. Talk with the health care professional about any medical problems and medicine use (both prescription and over-the-counter).
• Ask about avoiding any substances at work or at homethat might be harful to a developing baby.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Avoid unpasteurized (raw) milk and foods made from it.
• Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat.

While Pregnant:

• Keep up these healthy habits.
• Get early prenatal care and go to every appointment.

Want to learn more? Pregnancy Week by Week videos provide details of the gestation period from week one to week 40. Each video covers another step in the pregnancy process including what is going on in your belly, when you should be taking doctor visits, and what changes your body can expect. A great resource for all readers and expecting mothers.

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