Preparing for your healthy pregnancy

This fact sheet provides information and tips on preparing for a healthy pregnancy.

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Preparing for your healthy pregnancy

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Publication type:
Fact sheet
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General public
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English

Preparing for your healthy pregnancy

Healthy lifestyle choices before, during and after pregnancy will benefit you and your baby now and in the future.

  • Eat nutritious food and stay active to increase your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby.
  • Increase your folic acid intake to help protect your baby against neural tube defects.
  • Increase your iodine intake for your baby’s brain development.
  • Check your vaccinations are up to date, and iron levels are normal.

If you are having trouble becoming pregnant, talk to your health professional.

Tips

  • Get plenty of sleep. Take care of yourself. Keep stress levels down.
  • Reach out to your partner, friends, family or health professionals if you need support.
  • Maintain a healthy weight to help with getting pregnant. If you are unsure what a healthy weight is for you, talk to your health professional.
  • The health and weight of the baby’s father is important too – eat healthy and be active together.
  • Eat healthy food and stay active.
  • Increase your intake of folic acid and iodine through food and supplements.
  • Limit caffeine intake from tea, coffee and soft drinks.
  • Don’t drink alcohol.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Speak with your health professional about your plans.

For more information about preparing for your healthy pregnancy visit health.gov.au/campaigns/your-healthy-pregnancy

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