When you first discover that you’re pregnant, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The first trimester of pregnancy is the most important to your baby’s development. We’ve developed a checklist for you, so you know what to consider for the healthiest possible pregnancy for you and your baby.
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First step:
Start care with a provider
When you first get a positive pregnancy test, call for an appointment with a provider at 216-778-4444. It’s important to start visiting your care team right away so we can assess your health and make sure your baby is developing normally.
At MetroHealth, you can choose from three types of providers who provide pregnancy care: certified nurse-midwives, obstetricians and a select number of our family medicine providers. If you are at high risk for complications during your pregnancy, you may be referred to MetroHealth’s renowned Maternal-Fetal Medicine program.
MetroHealth providers listen to you and provide you with personalized attention and care. We have Spanish-speaking providers available, and we have the experience to help you meet your goals for pregnancy. In fact, at MetroHealth, we have a high success rate for Vaginal Birth after C-Section (VBAC). We are also experts in specialized care, and nobody treats more high-risk pregnancies than we do.
Second step:
Assess your health
Your health directly impacts your baby’s health as they develop. It’s important to:
- Stop smoking, and seek help from your provider to quit
- Avoid alcohol
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Exercise
- Limit caffeine intake
Third step:
Take your vitamins
Prenatal vitamins can give your body the tools it needs—beyond vitamins and minerals found in a healthy diet—to help your baby develop. Prenatal vitamins are available over-the-counter in nearly any pharmacy, including several MetroHealth Pharmacies across Northeast Ohio.
You’ll want to select a prenatal vitamin that has folic acid, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. Folic acid can help avoid brain and spinal cord defects. Iron assists your body in making blood, delivering oxygen to your baby and developing your placenta. Calcium and vitamin D promote good bone development for your baby.
