Pregnancy Health

Learn about the structure and function of the umbilical cord, part of your baby's life support system.

By Heidi Butler

In this article, we'll take you through what will happen at your first prenatal appointment step by step!

Prenatal care decisions include family-practice doctor vs. obstetrician, group practice vs. nurse-midwife, and hospital or birthing center vs. home birth. What options are right for your pregnancy?

During pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, you may see an obstetrician (ob/gyn), a general practitioner, a midwife, a pediatrician, and a neonatologist. Keep track of who's who in prenatal care.

Some beauty treatments and cosmetics are unsafe during pregnancy. Learn about the prenatal risks of hair and nail products, piercing, tanning, Botox, hot tubs, and facials.

You can travel during pregnancy. Learn about taking certain precautions, the best time to travel, staying comfortable on your trip, vacation activities, and avoiding infections and bugs.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, avoid over-the-counter medications like antacids, antibiotics, cold medicines, laxatives, and steroids. Read what other remedies may not be safe for your baby.

Exposure to certain things during pregnancy could be harmful to you or your baby. Get the facts about lifestyle and environmental hazards such as alcohol, smoking, and chemicals.

Certain workplace environments can be hazardous to your pregnancy. Know your rights as an employee.

Can you use an asthma inhaler, herbal remedies and teas, and homeopathy during pregnancy? Get advice on prenatal medication concerns and what medicines and home remedies to avoid.

Pregnancy lowers your immune system, making you more likely to get sick with colds, the flu, food poisoning, upset stomach, yeast, and urinary infections. Learn how to avoid and treat infections.

During pregnancy, chickenpox can lead to pneumonia, and rubella can cause miscarriage or serious problems for your baby. Find out how to avoid contracting these infections and when to contact your doctor.

Pregnant women should avoid or limit eating some foods. Take prenatal dietary precautions against mercury in seafood, listeria in processed meat, and more.

Eating a nutritious, balanced diet for you and your baby during pregnancy is simple. Get a healthy balance of carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamins, and other nutrients in your prenatal diet.

Early in your pregnancy, your doctor may measure your body mass index, or BMI, an estimate of body fat based on height and weight. Learn how BMI is calculated and about healthy prenatal weight.

Find advice on how to keep yourself and your unborn child safe during your last trimester of pregnancy.

Get tips on protecting your unborn child and yourself from radiation exposure during pregnancy.

Find out whether it's safe for you to dye and perm your hair during pregnancy.