If you think you may be pregnant, schedule a pregnancy test immediately. Then, apply for Medicaid and secure approval. It is important to start your prenatal care early, and the next step is enrollment with a Care Coordinator. Once you select your doctor at enrollment, early prenatal care can help your baby be born healthy.
If you think you may be pregnant, it is important for you and your baby’s health that you:
- Drink 6-8 glasses of water each day.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods everyday.
- Eat three (3) meals at regular times during the day.
- Keep all your health care appointments.
- Wear your seat belt at all times.
To prevent causing any harm to you or your baby:
- Always check with your doctor before using any over the counter or prescription drugs.
- Don’t drink alcohol (beer, wine, wine cooler, liquor). Drinking alcohol can cause birth defects.
- Don’t smoke. Tobacco of any kind will harm you and your baby. Smoking increases the chances that your baby is born too soon or too small. If you need help quitting, talk to your Care Coordinator or call (800) QUIT-NOW
- Don’t use any street drugs (crack, cocaine, marijuana, PCP). Street drugs can hurt you and your baby. Your baby could have serious mental or physical problems that can last for years.
Our goal is to provide you with the resources you need to make healthy choices for you and your baby. Educational materials will be provided to you at your Care Coordination visit. If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact your Care Coordinator. Some of the topics which will be covered at the time of your session are:
- Breastfeeding
- Diabetic Education (for Diabetic patients)
- Domestic Abuse
- Drug Use during Pregnancy
- Exercise and Pregnancy
- Group B Strep
- Safe Sleep
- SIDS/Shaken Baby
- Smoking Cessation
Maternity Educational Resources: