Eating the right foods while you are pregnant will help you feel better and give your baby the nutrition needed for healthy growth.

• Whenever possible, choose whole foods, like apples, instead of apple juice, or a baked potato instead of french fries 
• For carbohydrates, choose whole grain breads, whole wheat pastas and brown rice to add more fiber and vitamins to your diet
• Eat more leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach
• Lean protein foods like chicken and turkey, or beans and lentils, are also good choices
• Stick with low or non-fat milk or dairy products
• Try to stay away from deli meats and limit how much fish you eat

If you have morning sickness, try eating some crackers before you get out of bed. You may find that eating smaller meals more often during the day helps with queasiness, and makes you feel more energetic.

Your doctor may suggest a prenatal vitamin that can give your baby important vitamins and minerals that are needed to grow and develop. Remember, whatever goes in your body also goes in your baby’s body.

Pregnant women with Medicaid can receive free care at home from the Maternal Infant Health Program (MIHP).

A nurse and social worker will work with you to provide support during your pregnancy and after your baby is born. Through MIHP, you’ll learn the skills you need to stay healthy and have a healthy baby. It’s like having a personal care team to coordinate with your doctor, your health plan, and other providers in your community. 

The Nurse-Family Partnership program guides young, first-time expectant mothers from early pregnancy through their child’s second birthday.

A trained nurse partner will work with you to offer help and advice throughout your pregnancy, visit you at home and answer questions about infant care, and give you the support you need to raise a happy, healthy baby and create a stable, secure future for you both. 

• Rest when you can, and try to get a good night’s sleep 
• Anything you put in your body will also go in your baby. Avoid smoking, drinking, and using drugs, which can result in serious health problems for your baby. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor
• Staying active will help you feel better, reduce your blood pressure and help you manage any other health conditions

• Plan time for a daily walk or swim, or sign up for a prenatal yoga class
• Talk with your doctor or nurse midwife about an exercise plan during your pregnancy
• It’s also important that you stay up-to-date with your vaccines. Ask your doctor about an annual flu shot and other important vaccinations that guard against serious diseases