Having a baby is an exciting time for mum and dad-to-be. Here are some important tips to help you have a healthy baby.

Food:»» It is important for both mum and dad to eat healthy meals

»» Choose foods from the Taro Leaf

»» Drink water

»» Cut out junk food and sugary drinks

»» »Mum will need to take extra vitamins and minerals before and during pregnancy to help baby grow strong.

Physical activity:»» Mum and dad should try to do at least 30 minutes of physical activity everyday

»» Try walking together or doing an activity you both like

»» Quit unhealthy habits like drinking alcohol and smoking

»» Keep baby in a smoke free environment before and after birth.

Talk to your doctor about: »» What to expect during pregnancy

»» What care options do you have during pregnancy

»» What appointments to go to during pregnancy

»» What mum can do to help baby grow healthy

»» What dad can do to help

»» What to expect during labour

»» How you will feed baby and tips on breastfeeding.

Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Planning pregnancy

Space for your notes

Talk to each other: »» Mum and dad’s mental and emotional health is just as

important as getting your body ready for pregnancy and birth

»» Talk and listen to each other about your feelings. Be open and honest

»» Talk with your extended family as they will play a big part in raising your baby

»» Connect with your community or church groups

»» Try not to do things that are very stressful like changing jobs, working lots of overtime or moving house

»» Talk about how you will be as parents

»» Talk about how you will share jobs in the home and work as a team

»» Find out about your local child health clinic to get support after birth.

Getting ready for pregnancy is a BIG thing but your body knows what to do. It can make you feel excited and scared at the same time.

All information contained in this sheet has been supplied by qualified professionals as a guideline for care only. Seek medical advice, as appropriate, for concerns regarding you or your child’s health.

FS238 developed by Good Start program. Updated: June 2017.

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These services are confidential with experienced professionals. They can be contacted 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

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