Pregnancy
Planning for and managing your pregnancy can lead to a lot of questions and sort through a wealth of information. We are here to help guide you through the whole process.
Planning A Pregnancy
If you are planning a pregnancy you are taking the first steps to a healthy, happy, and informed pregnancy. This is the time to prepare your body and mind to provide the best environment for your baby to grow and flourish. If you have chronic conditions or health concerns that will have to be managed over the course of your pregnancy, this is the ideal time to plan a course of action. Ultimately, the goal is to plan a course of treatment that will maintain your overall health while posing the lowest possible risk to your developing baby. PEIL is here to assist you with these goals and with other related questions you may have throughout your pregnancy.
Useful Tips
Some helpful tips to get started in the right direction:
- Schedule a preconception appointment with you doctor. They will discuss your overall lifestyle and health, from diet and medications to family history and genetics. Preconception visits are especially important for women who have any chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
- Do not stop taking your daily medications for the treatment of certain conditions without first checking with your doctor or the InfoLine.
- Take 400-800 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily with a multi or prenatal vitamin.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Seek assistance to treat drug or chemical addictions.
- Take steps to quit smoking.
- Start eating healthy and develop an exercise plan if you haven’t already.
- Review the use of any over the counter medications.
- Review the use of any herbal or home remedies for safety during pregnancy.
Managing Your Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be an exciting yet nerve-racking experience. During pregnancy there are so many questions that come up daily. Whether you just found out about your pregnancy and are now concerned about what you were exposed to or you are in the middle of pregnancy and have just been prescribed a new medication. Pregnancy can be an exciting yet nerve-racking experience. It can be quite frustrating not knowing where to turn for accurate information. That is why we are here for you at any stage of those 40 weeks of pregnancy. We will provide non-judgmental counseling for all your concerns during pregnancy.
When you call you will be asked for: Your name, address, phone number, due date or the date of your last period. Information about the exposure (dates, amounts, name of ingredients or chemicals). All the information you provide is COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL and will help the counselors better assess your situation. The service is FREE.
Useful Tips
Some helpful tips to get started in the right direction:
- Take your prenatal vitamins and Folic Acid , 400- 800 micrograms(mcg) a day
- Attend all prenatal appointments with your OBGYN and other health care providers as needed
- Avoid herbal supplements and teas unless approved for safety
- Eat a well-balanced, healthy diet
- Do not stop or change your medication(s) without first consulting your doctor
- Ask your healthcare provider or call us about Listeriosis and Toxoplasmosis and how to avoid becoming infected
- Be aware of the possible risks from product(s) you use in your home and work
- Be street drug, alcohol, and smoke free and seek help if support is needed to quit
- Enjoy your pregnancy!
Online Resources
OTIS (Our National Organization)
March of Dimes
The Center for Women’s Mental Health
The National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics
American Pregnancy Association
WebMD Pregnancy
CDC (Center for Disease Control)
FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for Women