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  1. Women's Health Topics

Pregnancy

From the FDA Office of Women's Health

Image
Pregnant young woman cradling her stomach

Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant? Having a baby can be a joyous time that comes with changes as you go through each stage of pregnancy. The FDA has lots of resources to help you make good choices about medicines, foods, and other products for you and your baby.

On this page:

Before pregnancy 

Thinking of becoming pregnant? Preconception care is important to give you and your baby a healthy start. Make a plan, discuss and keep up with your annual health exams with your health care provider. 

During pregnancy

Pregnancy can be an exciting but also challenging time for you and your family. For example, pregnancy makes it harder for your body to fight off illness caused by food. Some foods are not safe for you and your baby. 

Regular prenatal care throughout your pregnancy journey can help catch any concerns, reduce the risk of complications, and help protect the health of you and your baby.

Talk with your health care provider and check out the resources below. 

NEW! Download our Pregnancy Social Media Toolkit (PDF, 3.42 MB) for social media content, a blog post, and sample graphics to help you share important information about pregnancy with the women in your community.

Pregnancy toolkit cover image

Medicine and pregnancy

Some women need to take medicines during pregnancy for health problems they had before pregnancy like diabetes or depression, while others may need to take medicine for health problems like high blood pressure that can start or get worse during pregnancy. Always talk with your health care provider, nurse, or pharmacist before taking any medicines, vitamins or herbs. 

Use these resources to help you talk with your health care provider about the medicines or vaccines you take during your pregnancy.

During pregnancy or as a new mother, you may feel overwhelmed at times. Mental health support and resources are available through the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7. Call or text 1-833- TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). 

Resources for new moms

Congratulations, baby is here! Check out the resources below to keep you and your baby safe.

Breast pumps and breastfeeding

The FDA has general tips on how to safely use a breast pump and store breast milk. Talk with your health care provider for other breastfeeding tips.

Other helpful tips for new moms

There is a lot you need to know about the medicines and other products you use for your baby. FDA has free resources to help you talk with your health care provider about what is best for you and your baby.

Infants

Feeding

Baby products

Medicines

Mom's Health

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