What are the key positive behaviours that all women should be encouraged to adopt?
DGRefHelp - NHS Dumfries & Galloway
Warning
- Taking appropriate contraception to prevent unplanned pregnancy
- Leaving a minimum 18 month gap between pregnancies
- Talking with GP or specialist about any medication, family history or previous adverse pregnancy outcomes in advance of becoming pregnant
- Eating a balanced diet including advice on what foods to avoid. See 'Foods to avoid during pregnancy'
- Taking a folic acid supplement. See 'Folic acid supplements'
- Managing weight
- Being physically active. See 'Exercise'
- Reducing alcohol consumption (unless the woman is already abstinent)
- Avoiding exposure to second hand smoke and in women who smoke, smoking cessation
- Stopping any illicit drug use
- Seeking support if a partner is violent. Referral to specialist support services should be offered
- Ensuring immunisations are up to date (measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus and diphtheria, HPV, and hepatitis in individuals from high risk groups). It is recommended that all pregnant women irrespective of gestation should have influenza vaccine. COVID-19 vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. See the RCOG COVID-19 vaccines, pregnancy and breastfeeding FAQs
- STI testing if change of sexual partner or partner has other partners
- Taking measures to avoid toxoplasmosis. See 'How to avoid toxoplasmosis'
- Reducing exposure to potential environmental hazards. See 'Environmental hazards'