Healthy You, Healthy Baby
Prepare for a healthy pregnancy for you and your baby by seeking prenatal care, dental care, and by preventing infections.
Prenatal Care
Prenatal care means pregnancy care or health care before your baby is born. Seeing an obstetrician for prenatal care is important, and receiving this care early can increase your chance of having a healthy baby.
It's never too early...
To start prenatal care
To start taking prenatal vitamins
To eat well
To learn about the signs of pre-term labor
It's never too late...
To start prenatal care
To stop smoking
To make healthy choices
It's never too early and it's never too late to take care of YOU! For free pregnancy test locations or to make an appointment for prenatal care in the Tulsa area, call Babyline at 918-838-0694.
Dental Care
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), maintaining good oral health for mothers-to-be is an important part of overall health. One of the most common dental problems associated with pregnancy is a condition known as "pregnancy gingivitis," which usually occurs in the 1st trimester. Up to 18% of preterm births may be attributed to pregnancy gingivitis.
Watch those pregnancy cravings. Sugary foods and drinks can lead to plaque buildup. That buildup can entr the bloostream through swollen gums, and the inflammation can cause stress to the baby - causing preterm labor.
Excellent oral hygiene is of upmost importance during pregnancy. Brushing well, flossing daily, and a visit to the dental hygienist for a cleaning and check up will help prevent many problems.
SoonerCare encourages preventative maternal health by providing free dental services to those who qualify. You may call the SoonerCare Helpline at 800-987-7767 for a provider in your area.
Maternal Infections
Having any kind of infection during your pregnancy could harm your baby. The following are some infections that could put your baby at risk:
- Bacterial Vaginosis
- E. Coli
- Gingivitis
- Group B Strep
- HPV
- Rubella
- Toxoplasmosis
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Yeast Infection
Babies born to mothers with sexually transmitted infections can suffer from:
- Brain damage
- Blindness or deafness
- Low birth weight
- Premature birth
- Stillbirth
The following are some sexually transmitted infections that could put your baby at risk:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Herpes
- HIV
- Syphilis
- Trichomonas
If you are infected: See a medical provider right away and take all of your medication as prescribed. Use a condom during intercourse every time. Make sure your partner is treated so you don't become infected again.