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Health Before

Pregnancy
Last Reviewed July 2012

Mother-To-Be Checklist

Do you feel ready to become a mother?

Taking the time to plan can increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Read and consider the statements below. Each refers to an aspect of good health, proper nutrition and important safeguards against negative factors when it comes to conceiving or parenting.

Parenting Demands and Responsibilities

I'm ready to be a parent
I'm financially prepared to become a mother. I know the costs of raising a child
I know how much my child will change my life

Personal Health

Mental Health, Emotions and Feelings
I'm a positive thinker
I accept only what I can handle
I prevent my anger from getting out of control
I know the signs of depression and postpartum depression. I know who to call for help

Physical Health

I booked my ‘health before pregnancy' check-up with my health-care provider
My immunizations are up-to-date
I've been tested for sexually transmitted infections
I'm a healthy weight
I know the signs of an eating disorder

Nutrition
I eat healthy meals and snacks
I eat foods rich in folic acid daily
I take a multivitamin with 0.4mg of folic acid

Exercise and Fitness

I walk during my work breaks and sometimes take the stairs
I enjoy many physical activities or playing sports a few times a week

Sleep and Stress Level
I usually sleep well and feel rested
I can cope with stress in my life
I balance time spent at work and at home
I get support when I feel worried or anxious

Healthy Lifestyle and Habits

Tobacco Smoking
I don't smoke cigarettes
My home is smoke-free
Family members and guests smoke outside
I stay away from second-hand smoke

Alcohol, Drugs and Caffeine
I've reduced my intake of coffee, tea or pop
I read the labels of over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin, cold medications and natural remedies
I don't drink alcohol
I don't use drugs like marijuana and cocaine

Read more about things to reduce and avoid as you prepare to conceive.

Environment: Home and Work
I'm aware of the effect of chemicals at my workplace
I'm aware of the effects of chemicals in products I use at home.
I garden with gloves and avoid pesticides.

Relationships and Support System
I have people with whom I can share my feelings
I feel safe – physically, sexually and emotionally – with my partner and my family

Family Health
I know the health history of my family and my partner
I'm aware of certain genetic conditions and inherited diseases in my family and my partner's family

Breastfeeding

I know that breastmilk is the healthiest food for my baby
I'm aware of the risks of formula feeding
I know where to get reliable breastfeeding information, before and after my baby is born

For more information:
Region of Peel — Public Health
905-799-7700 Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Caledon residents call free of charge at 905-584-2216
To speak with a Public Health Nurse


Preparing for Pregnancy: The Basics | For Moms-To-Be | For Dads-To-Be | Contact Us

Revised: Friday July 06 2012

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