• Get early and regular prenatal care. See your doctor if you’re starting to plan a pregnancy.
  • Get at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. Health care providers recommend taking folic acid both before and during pregnancy.
  • Before becoming pregnant, be sure you’ve been properly vaccinated for certain diseases—such as chicken pox and rubella—that could harm an unborn baby.
  • Maintain a healthy weight and diet.
  • Get regular physical activity before, during and after pregnancy.
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol and drug use before, during and after pregnancy.
  • Avoid hot tubs and saunas.