Can Miscarriages or Stillbirths Be Prevented?
Although miscarriage and stillbirths usually can’t be prevented, you can take precautions to increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy: • Maintain a proper diet loaded with folic acid and calcium. • Exercise after you’ve gotten your doctor’s OK. • Maintain a healthy weight (women who are overweight or too thin are more likely to have miscarriages). • Avoid drugs and alcohol. • Avoid deli meats and soft cheeses such as feta and other foods that could carry listeriosis. • Limit caffeine drinks to no more than 1 to 2 cups a day. • If you smoke, quit. • Talk to your doctor about all medications you’re currently taking. Unless your doctor indicates otherwise, many prescription and over-the-counter medicines should be avoided during pregnancy. • Avoid abdominal trauma. • Get immunized against communicable diseases and know your family medical and genetic history. • Go to all of your scheduled prenatal appointments and discuss any concerns with your doctor. • Call your doctor right
