Your Pre-Pregnancy To-Do List

• Take a folic acid supplement every day. This reduces the chance of certain birth defects. Do not wait until you are pregnant to do this.
• Make a doctor's appointment for a checkup/wellness visit.
  
• Make sure to get and begin taking prenatal vitamins.
  
• Check with your doctor about any over-the-counter and prescription medications you currently take.
  
• See your dentist for a cleaning or checkup if you have not done so in the last six months. Untreated gum disease is linked to preterm birth.
  
• Look into local prenatal exercise classes.
  
• Review maternity/paternity leave options at work and your health insurance's maternity coverage.
• Develop a maternity and baby budget.
  
• If you smoke, quit.
  
• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake.
  
• Stock your refrigerator with healthy foods and snacks.