Women who postpone childbearing may face some special risks.

Steps a woman can do to reduce her risks include:

• Consume 400 micrograms (0.4 milligram) of the B vitamin folic acid daily before and during pregnancy (this applies to all women of childbearing age).
• Have a pre-pregnancy medical check-up and obtain early and regular prenatal care during pregnancy.
• Eat a variety of nutritious foods and achieve proper weight for height before conception.
• Don’t drink alcoholic beverages during pregnancy.
• Don’t smoke during pregnancy.
• Don’t use any drug, even over-the-counter medications, unless recommended by a health care provider who knows you are pregnant.
  

Pregnancy is an exciting time for parents-to-be. You want to know as much as you can about your developing baby and how your actions will affect his health. Use our online Pregnancy & Childbirth Center to help you make informed decisions from conception through delivery.