Healthy Pregnancy Practices:

1. Choose a care provider that will listen and respond to your questions and concerns, and will support you in the safest, healthiest birth possible.

2. Eat healthy foods that supply all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for your baby to thrive and have the best start possible.

3. Stay hydrated. The water you drink carries nutrients to the baby and provides the liquid needed for the amniotic fluid.

4. Get some exercise to increase comfort during pregnancy and prepare your body for labor and birth.

5. Avoid toxins that have ben linked to birth defects, miscarriage, and other problems.

6. Learn relaxation techniques and enjoy sleeping for two.

Healthy Birth Practices:

1. Let labor begin on its own.

2. Walk, move around and change positions throughout labor.

3. Bring a loved one, friend or doula for continuous support.

4. Avoid interventions that are not medically necessary.

5. Avoid giving birth on your back and follow your body's urges to push.

6. Keep mother and baby together — it's best for mother, baby and breastfeeding.

         Source: Lamaze International