Pre Conception Care

We at Health New England, want you to have the best possible experience during your pregnancy. That is why we would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to our pregnancy support program.

Our goal is to provide you with the information and advice you will need to maintain your health and the health of your baby during your pregnancy. Included as a part of this program are educational materials which cover basic information about pregnancy, postpartum care, learning to breastfeed, and labor and birth.

The Brighter Infant Beginnings Program (BIB) is a benefit available to all expectant parents. When you do decide to have a baby, and your OB Provider notifies us, you will receive a complimentary parent education packet from HNE in the mail. The packet consists of the books: “Planning Your Pregnancy and Birth”, and “Your Baby, Your Child: A Parents Guide to Pregnancy and Early Childhood”.

This link is to give some basic information for those who may be contemplating beginning a pregnancy. Both men and women are encouraged to discuss this information with your doctor at your pre-conception physical.

For Women: Visit your gynecological provider, let him/her know you are going to try to get pregnant. Visit your PCP or get a referral to see your specialist if you have medical conditions that can be affected by pregnancy (asthma, diabetes, lupus, cardiac, etc).

For Men: See your PCP for a complete physical.

For Both: Review prescription and non- prescription drugs used with Provider. Discuss how pre-existing medical conditions and/or medications may effect conception or pregnancy.

Follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly.

Women- Increase your intake of Folic Acid (recommendation is 400mcg. Daily).
This decreases the risk of open neural tube defects.

Visit the dentist.

Quit smoking.

Consider taking a Pre-Conception class, if available.

Avoid illegal drugs.

Avoid alcohol.

Smoking Cessation Program for Expectant Moms