Pregnancy
Expectations, recommendations, dietary guidelines, and more ways to stay healthy
You should seek out prenatal care as soon as you test positive for pregnancy. During pregnancy you will have many checkup appointments.
Expect to gain weight to keep the baby healthy and able to grow. Weight gain goals depend on weight prior to pregnancy.
| Your Pre-Pregnancy Weight: | Healthy Weight Gain During Your Pregnancy: |
|---|---|
|
Underweight
BMI less than 18.5
|
28–40 pounds |
|
Normal Weight
BMI 18.5–24.9
|
25–35 pounds |
|
Overweight
BMI 25–29.9
|
15–25 pounds |
|
Obese
BMI greater than or equal to 30
|
11–20 pounds |
Nausea or vomiting is common during pregnancy. It is most common during the first trimester.
Morning sickness does not just happen in the morning.
If you feel sick:
If you cannot keep anything down for more than 12-24 hours, contact your doctor.
Heartburn can be alleviated by:
As your pregnancy gets further along, you may need to up your calorie intake.
Below are examples.
*These are averages for someone who was a healthy weight before pregnancy. You may need to eat more or less based on your prepregnancy weight.
This increase in calories should be consumed through nutrient dense foods. Nutrient dense foods…
To help protect your health and the well-being of your baby, avoid the following foods during pregnancy:
6-8 oz per day
2½ – 3½ cups per day
2 cups per day
3 cups per day
5½ – 6½ oz per day
Staying active has many benefits, including:
Pregnant women should do 20 to 30 minutes of light exercise per day.
Growing a baby is a lot of work both physically and mentally. Take time for yourself. Do things you enjoy. Do not be afraid to seek help from friends, family, or a health professional.
If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, get immediate help by calling 988.
Pregnant women should do 20 to 30 minutes of light exercise per day.
Alcohol (beer, wine, liquor) is known to cause birth defects in infants. Even one drink can hurt the baby.
Smoking or vaping while pregnant can cause birth defects and pregnancy complications. Flavorings used in vapes also put the baby at risk. Second hand smoke after birth will hurt the baby.
Do not use: alcohol, cigarettes, vapes, illegal drugs, unprescribed medications, etc.
For help quitting call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or 1-800-784-8669.
