Summary and checklist

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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.