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Most pregnancies go well and without any major problems. But it is wise to reduce any risks as much as possible. So, a reminder of things to consider before becoming pregnant, or as soon as you realise that you are pregnant.....

• Things you should do

Take folic acid tablets before you get pregnant until 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Check if you are immune against rubella.
Eat a healthy diet. Include foods rich in iron, calcium and folic acid.
Wash your hands after handling raw meat, or handling cats and kittens.
Wear gloves when you are gardening.

• Things you should avoid

Too much vitamin A - don't eat liver or liver products, or take vitamin A tablets.
Listeriosis - don't eat undercooked meat or eggs, soft cheese, pâté, shellfish, raw fish, or unpasteurised milk.
Fish which may contain a lot of mercury - shark, marlin, swordfish, or excess tuna.
Sheep, lambs, cat faeces, cat litters, and raw meat which may carry certain infections.
Peanuts - if you have a personal or family history of eczema, hay fever, or asthma.

• Things you should stop or cut down

Caffeine in tea, coffee, cola, etc, - have no more than 300 mg per day. This is in about three cups of brewed coffee, or four cups of instant coffee, or six cups of tea.
Alcohol - have no more than 1-2 drinks, once or twice a week.
Smoking - you are strongly advised to stop completely.
Street drugs - you are strongly advised to stop completely.

• Other things to consider

Immunisation against hepatitis B if you are at increased risk of getting this infection.
Immunisation against chickenpox if you are a healthcare worker and have not previously had chickenpox and so are not immune.
Your medication - including herbal and 'over the counter' medicines.
Your work environment - is it safe?
Medical conditions in yourself, or conditions which run in your family.

© EMIS and PIP 2006 Updated: October 2006 PRODIGY Validated

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