Now that you’re eating and breathing for two, it’s important to keep the two of you safe, by getting the regular prenatal care you need and by following your care provider’s recommendations.
 
Keep your prenatal appointments
Whether you see an obstetrician or a midwife, regular checkups are vital to monitor the health of you and your baby. Be sure to keep your prenatal appointments, and to quickly reschedule any that you miss. While you’re at your appointment, be sure to talk about any medications you currently take or plan to take.
 
Dodge the flu — for both of you
It’s recommended that pregnant women receive certain vaccines, both of which are proven safe to both mom and baby:

• Flu Shot: Pregnant women are more likely to become severely ill from the flu. The good news is that the flu shot protects both mother and baby during pregnancy and for months after delivery. 
• Tdap: Doctors recommend getting this vaccine against whooping cough between 27 and 36 weeks. This vaccine will also protect the baby through the first few months of life. 

Know when to quit
Speaking of taking care of yourself, here’s what you need to know about alcohol, smoking, and caffeine during pregnancy. Need help to quit smoking? Call the Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669). Plus, you can get reimbursed up to $150 for programs to help you quit smoking.
 
Stay safe at home
Protecting yourself and your baby is one of the most important jobs you have right now. If you ever feel unsafe in your own home, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or TTY: 1-800-787-3224 for confidential support.
 
Planning a babymoon? Be aware of the continued risk of the Zika virus, which can cause birth defects. Here are the current areas that are affected.