Before Pregnancy

It can be exciting and scary to take care of an infant. Here are some important steps you can take now to help keep your baby healthy.

Mom talking to baby laying on the floor
Expecting mother reviewing ultra sound pictures with doctor

Healthcare Coverage & Benefits

  • If you are thinking of becoming pregnant it is important to get the healthcare coverage you need. Apply for coverage or if you already have coverage, make sure to let your insurance provider know as soon as possible.
  • MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women provides women with benefits and resources including diapers, breast pumps, transportation to medical appointments, and much more! Coverage is effective during your pregnancy and up to 12 months after delivery.
  • If you have MO HealthNet Managed Care, visit their website to learn more about what benefits and resources they provide:

Medical Care

  • As you prepare for pregnancy, you should visit your doctor for a check-up. Your doctor will make sure any medications you take are safe for your pregnancy. It is also important to continue your regular dental check-ups.
  • Your doctor will ask you about your and your partner’s family medical history. This will help your doctor assess your risk of any complications with pregnancy.
  • Most Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) show no symptoms but can cause issues as early as the pre-pregnancy stage. If you are planning a pregnancy, have your doctor perform STI testing in preparation.
  • Once you become pregnant you are more vulnerable to diseases. Staying up-to-date on all your vaccines can help protect you and your baby.
  • Mental health is important when planning for your pregnancy. Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy can intensify mental health issues. Seek out a mental health professional at the beginning to support you through your pregnancy and through the year following the pregnancy.
Expecting mother discussing results with doctor
Healthy eating

Lifestyle Changes

  • Since nearly half of pregnancies are unexpected, anyone of childbearing age should take folic acid, avoid drugs and alcohol, and eat a healthy diet. If you need help with substance or alcohol use, find a treatment center near you to get help right away.
  • Folic acid is extremely important for your growing baby and pregnancy health. Folic acid is a water soluble B-vitamin that must be taken daily, because your body cannot store it. Taking a daily prenatal multivitamin containing 400 mcg of Folic acid is recommended. MO HealthNet and many other healthcare plans cover the cost of prenatal vitamins. If you do not have health insurance, you may qualify for MO HealthNet.
  • Eating healthy, including lots of fruits and vegetables and plenty of carbohydrates, fats, and protein is important for your baby’s healthy development during your pregnancy. You may be eligible for free food and nutrition counseling through Missouri’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program. To learn more about WIC or apply, visit wic.mo.gov.
  • You should avoid drugs and alcohol as soon as you start trying to get pregnant. Drugs and alcohol can harm your chances of conceiving. Drug and alcohol use can lead to preterm birth, miscarriage, low birth weight, and fetal alcohol syndrome.