Caring for your unborn child

Prenatal Care and your Child’s Development

Prenatal Brain Development

Here is something that may surprise you. Before your baby is even born, her brain will be fairly well developed. And she will actually begin learning things while inside the womb. “Research shows that a lot of brain development happens before birth," according to pediatrician Robin Blitz, M.D., of the Children's Health Center at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix. Because of this, "Good prenatal care is essential.”

Five Ways to Have a Healthy Pregnancy and Baby

1. See a doctor or other health care provider from the start of your pregnancy.

2. Don’t drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes or take drugs. Mothers who smoke often have babies with lower birth weights-which studies tie to increased risks for learning and behavior problems during childhood.

3. Eat healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, low-fat milk, eggs, cheese, and grains. Good nutrition is essential. For example, too little folic acid during pregnancy can cause neural tube defects. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends that women of childbearing age get at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, through food and/or supplements.

4. Take good care of your health and exercise sensibly. Maternal stress can change a baby's brain development as well.  Studies have shown that newborns exposed to greater maternal stress have poorer coordination and slower response times and distract more easily than other newborns.

5. Have your baby checked by a doctor or health care provider right after birth and throughout childhood.

Ways to interact with your unborn child

1.     Talk and read to your baby frequently. This way, she will know your voice well by the time she is born. With enough conversation directed her way, she can hear dad's voice also.

2.     Play your favorite music. Studies have indicated that babies can "remember" music they heard repeatedly in utero.

3.     Provide a calming touch. If the baby seems restless, soothe her by gently stroking your abdomen.

4.     Take stress seriously. Try to reduce or eliminate those stress-inducing factors that may be within your control. Stress management can help you prepare to deal with the challenges of labor and parenting.

5.     Create a pleasant environment. Although muffled by mom's womb, sounds from the outside do reach baby. Avoid unpleasant noise when possible to create a relaxing ambiance for your baby.