Important Pregnancy Facts Every Mom Must Know to Protect Her Baby

Pregnant? Or planning to be soon? If you're planning for a little miracle, here a 5 valuable pregnancy facts.

Pregnancy Fact #1: Folic Acid Can Prevent Birth Defects

Prenatal vitamins are essential,not only for your health but your baby's health as well. Studies have shown that taking folic acid supplements, which is a key ingredient in prenatal vitamins, can prevent birth defects such as spina bifida and cleft palate. It is best when taken BEFORE you actually conceive and in the early stages of pregnancy. Read this information from the March of Dimes for more details. When I became pregnant, I worried because I hadn't really taken any vitamins or supplements until I found out I was pregnant. Of course, my baby was fine, but it is best if you start taking prenatal vitamins - or at least a folic acid supplement - before you get that positive pregnancy test.

Pregnancy Fact #2: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) May Harm the Baby (But you can prevent it!)

This one really scared me. I had never heard of CMV until I became pregnant. At the time, I was teaching in a head start program, which I enjoyed. The downside was I was always catching colds and other illnesses. In fact, I had a horrible illness when I found out I was pregnant - I looked it up online and became terrified when I read about CMV. Fortunately, my baby was healthy, but I feel there should be more education on the dangers of CMV. It is very rare, and most women already have the immunities for it, but it can cause serious complications if contracted during pregnancy. Read this article from the March of Dimes for more information. If you work with children, or already have children, it is very crucial that you wash your hands frequently, wear gloves when changing diapers, etc. If you do contract the virus, the baby might not be harmed, but he/she could be. Talk with your doctor for more information.

Pregnancy Fact #3: Breastfeeding Help is Available Before (and After) Your Baby Comes