Preconception
Thinking about becoming pregnant?
Here are some great resources.
Includes information about healthy pregnancy and healthy pregnancy planning to prevent birth defects.
Includes information on the importance of folic acid before and during pregnancy, and includes some information on folic acid sources.
Presents microimagery of human development from embryo through newborn. Includes a videotape broadcast describing DNA and fetal development from conception through birth, a pregnant mother’s journal, and information about prenatal testing, stem cell technology, cell division, and how sex is determined. Also includes links to additional resources and a teacher’s guide. This resource is presented by NOVA Online, part of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).
March of Dimes (MOD): Pregnancy and Newborn Health Education Center
Offers information in English and Spanish about preconception and prenatal care, pregnancy complications, labor and delivery, and newborn care. Also offers a monthly electronic newsletter and an online question-and-answer service in English and Spanish.
Includes links to information in English and Spanish about preconception and prenatal care. Links to MedlinePlus pages on related topics, including prenatal care; folic acid; high-risk pregnancy; pregnancy and substance abuse; prenatal testing; twins, triplets, multiple births; infant and newborn care; and breastfeeding.
National Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition (HMHB)
Includes fact sheets, published interviews with experts, and information in a question-and-answer format about preconception planning, prenatal care, and infant care.
Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA)
Gives information in English and Spanish about planning for pregnancy, prenatal care, and diet and healthy lifestyle choices during pregnancy.
Healthy Pregnancy from WomensHealth.gov
Offers information in English and Spanish about preparing for pregnancy, what happens during each of the three trimesters of pregnancy, pregnancy complications, labor, childbirth, and infant care.