When to call the doctor Pregnancy brings many changes. Most of what you feel is probably natural. But call your doctor right away if any of these happen:

• Cramping like you have during your period

• Tight pains in your stomach

• Pain or a burning feeling when you urinate

• Flu symptoms, such as chills, fever, dizziness, or weakness

• Bleeding from the vagina

• Vomiting for two or more days in a row

• Physical injury near your stomach

Take care of your teeth Expectant moms have special needs when it comes to their teeth. All the hormones in your body can lead to “pregnancy gingivitis.” This can cause swelling or bleeding. Your gums may also feel tender. These problems can sometimes cause an infection. If that happens, your baby may be born too early or too small. Keep your mouth—and your baby—healthy by:

• Seeing the dentist right away

• Brushing with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day

• Flossing your teeth at least once a day

• Having routine dental work done before your third trimester

Be a MetroMom! MetroMom is a program that helps pregnant women get the medical care they need for themselves and their babies.

Our maternal-child case managers work with you throughout your pregnancy and can answer your questions.

Special services like home care or transportation can be arranged. MetroMom members get a pregnancy calendar and a “Baby’s First

Year Calendar” as well as educational materials. We can help! To learn more, call 1.800.303.9626

or TTY 1.800.881.2812.

The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical

care and advice of your doctor. There may be variations in treatment that your doctor may

recommend based on individual facts about you.

MetroPlus Health Plan 160 Water St. 3rd Fl, New York, NY 10038

MetroPlus Medicaid: 1.800.475.METRO (6387) (TTY 1.800.881.2812)

MetroPlus Medicare: 1.866.986.0356 TTY: 711 MetroPlus MLTC: 1.855.355.MLTC (6582)

(TTY: 1.800.881.2812) Hours of operation: Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Prenatal care: Best for you and

your baby

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Give your baby the best start Your new baby will need lots of love and attention. But what about before your baby is born? Give your child a great start in life by going to the doctor as soon as you know you are pregnant.

The medical attention given before the baby is born is called prenatal care. Having prenatal care makes it more likely your baby will be healthy. The doctor will take care of both you and your baby during the pregnancy, helping you manage your and your baby’s health and prevent complications.

The doctor will do some tests to see how you and the baby are doing. If problems are caught early, they can often be treated before they get worse.

Healthy changes You may need to make some changes now that

you have a little baby depending on you. Your doctor will talk to you about these changes:

Take your vitamins. Most pregnant women need to take a multivitamin every day that includes folic acid. This can help avoid problems with your baby’s brain and spinal cord. You should start taking this right away.

Quit smoking: A baby whose mother smokes or is around smokers is at extra risk of many serious problems. These include miscarriage, low birth weight and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Talk with your doctor for help to quit.

Skip the alcohol. Drinking during your pregnancy could affect your child’s growth. It may also lead to your child having serious learning and behavior problems.

Say no to all drugs. Using drugs even once in a while can harm your baby. Taking drugs could even kill your child.

Limit caffeine. Caffeine may affect your blood pressure and your mood. Cut back on drinks with caffeine as much as you can. This includes soda, coffee, and tea.

Eat well. Eat food with lots of iron, such as red meat, beans, or oatmeal. And don’t forget fruits and veggies. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and milk.

What to expect Each pregnancy has 3 parts, the beginning, middle, and end. These are called trimesters. You may feel different during each one. Here are some of the things you may experience:

Morning sickness Don’t let the name fool you. Morning sickness can happen any time of day. You may feel sick when you see or smell food. It may help to:

• Eat many small meals during the day

• Avoid fried food

• Eat crackers before getting out of bed

• Drink a glass of milk at bedtime

Frequent urination It may feel like the baby is sitting on your bladder. Needing to go to the bathroom a lot is normal.

Sore or tender breasts Your breasts may become more sensitive or feel sore. Try wearing a larger bra with added support.

Aches and pains Your feet and ankles may swell. Your lower back may hurt. Your legs may cramp up. To ease those aches:

• Exercise often. Talk with your doctor about which exercises are safe for you.

• Change your sleeping routine. A firm mattress and extra pillows may help you sleep better.

• Try hot baths. Soak in the tub for a while to soothe your aching joints.