During Pregnancy | Vermont Department of Health

During Pregnancy | Vermont Department of Health
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Translations for you
During Pregnancy
Family Planning & Pregnancy
During Pregnancy
Family Planning and Birth Control
Maternal Health Innovation
Support Delivered: Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Info & Resources
Substance Use in Pregnancy
Substance Use in Pregnancy - Information for Providers
Strong Families Vermont Home Visiting
Resources for Educators & Providers
Start your prenatal care as soon as you know you are pregnant to help have a healthy pregnancy and baby. If you need help finding a health care provider, call your
Local Health Office
. The
WIC Program
is here to help you during your pregnancy – find out if you’re eligible and
how to apply
You may also be eligible for your own
experienced nurse
to answer questions about pregnancy, birth and after birth and to help support you and your baby's health and development at no cost to you.
If you are an educator or provider looking for resources, please see the
Resources for Educators and Providers
page.
Caring for Yourself During Pregnancy
Eat Healthy
Eating a variety of nourishing foods at regular meals and snacks will help you be healthy and support your baby’s growth and development.
Eat foods you enjoy in moderation and avoid foods that upset your stomach. Talk to your health care provider or
WIC
nutritionist about finding healthy substitutes for foods can’t eat.
If you crave non-food items (like ice, detergent or soil), let your doctor know.
Check with your health care provider for recommendations about prenatal vitamins.
It is best to limit caffeine in pregnancy to 2-3 cups of caffeinated beverages per day. Try water, or fruit juice mixed with seltzer as a refreshing substitute.
Try to avoid artificial sweeteners during pregnancy.
Talk with Your Health Care Provider
Weight gain is a normal part of pregnancy to support the growth and development of your baby. Your health care provider or
WIC
nutritionist can help support healthy weight gain during pregnancy.
Staying active helps support physical, mental and emotional health. Talk to your provider about what level of activity is right for you.
Talk to your health care provider about any pregnancy discomfort (like morning sickness, heartburn and constipation) for tips on how to handle these symptoms.
Continue to see your
dentist
, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day.
Talk to your health care provider about using prescription, over the counter and herbal medications.
There is no known safe amount of alcohol, tobacco or drugs to use while pregnant. If you need
help to stop smoking
or with
alcohol or other drugs
during your pregnancy you can talk with someone
who can help
, 802-565-LINK. Call your health care provider or contact your
local WIC office
for support.
Plan for After Your Baby is Born
Think ahead about how you will feed your baby. For many families,
breast or chestfeeding
is a good option. Human milk is nutritious, helps your baby fight off illness and is easy for babies to digest. Talk to your health care provider or your
WIC nutritionist
about breastfeeding or chestfeeding to decide if it is the right choice for you.
Learn about how to make sure your baby is in a
safe sleep
environment.
This
Environmental Health Guide
can help you to identify potential hazards in the environment where you live.
Resources
General Resources
Resource
Description
Move Your Way
Education on exercise in pregnancy and ideas on activities.
Maternal Depression
Information and resources about mental health.
Healthy Relationships
Information and resources about preventing domestic and sexual violence, as well as preventing child abuse.
Oral Health during pregnancy and in childhood
Information and resources on caring for your oral health in pregnancy, and ways to support good oral health for your child.
Resources to Prepare for After Baby is Born
Resource
Description
Resources on Infants and Young Children
Information and resources about raising your child.
Health Care for Children and Youth
Information about how to find a private or public health insurance plan that meets your needs or budget.
Immunizations for 0-18 years
Information on vaccines - why and when they are recommended and answers to other frequently asked questions.
Child Passenger Safety
Information on car seat safety and resources to help you with your car seat safety questions.
Prevent Lead Poisoning
Information on lead poisoning, recognizing the signs, and answers to other frequently asked questions.
Find More Resources
Topics:
Breastfeeding
|
Maternal Health
|
Physical Activity and Nutrition
|
Pregnancy
|
Prenatal Care
|
Reproductive Health
Last Updated:
October 17, 2025