{"id":319,"date":"2026-06-12T15:54:51","date_gmt":"2026-06-12T14:54:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/?page_id=319"},"modified":"2026-06-12T15:54:51","modified_gmt":"2026-06-12T14:54:51","slug":"before-pregnancy","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/parent-families\/before-pregnancy\/","title":{"rendered":"Before pregnancy"},"content":{"rendered":"<section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small width_full\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_center\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1250\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/header.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"are you ready for pregnancy\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/header.jpg 1250w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/header-300x72.jpg 300w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/header-1024x246.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1250px) 100vw, 1250px\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_3 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2>Are you thinking about becoming pregnant?<\/h2>\n<p>This guide will help you to prepare if you have a health condition.<\/p>\n<p>Let your nurse and doctor know you are thinking about pregnancy. They are there to help you.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-video align_none ratio_16x9 has_iframe\"><div class=\"w-video-h\"><iframe title=\"Youtube video player\" src=\"\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/M75LqJ6nCLQ?autoplay=0&controls=1&origin=https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk&loop=0&mute=0\" allowfullscreen=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/iframe><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_268bcd84\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>Choose language: \u00a0<div class=\"gtranslate_wrapper\" id=\"gt-wrapper-56293592\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-video align_none ratio_16x9 has_iframe\"><div class=\"w-video-h\"><iframe title=\"Youtube video player\" src=\"\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-dWDSBUCt40?autoplay=0&controls=1&origin=https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk&loop=0&mute=0\" allowfullscreen=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/iframe><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Pregnancy with a health condition<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small\"><div class=\"l-section-overlay\" style=\"background:var(--color-header-middle-bg)\"><\/div><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_2 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Health-conditions-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Health conditions\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Health-conditions-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Health-conditions-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"lb82\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-lb82\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Health conditions<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-lb82\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>Most women with health conditions can have a healthy pregnancy<\/li>\n<li>Talk to your doctor before you try to get pregnant to see how they can help you to prepare for pregnancy<\/li>\n<li>They will explain how your condition can affect pregnancy. And how pregnancy can affect your condition.<\/li>\n<li>You can also ask questions<\/li>\n<li>You are more likely to get pregnant if your health condition is well controlled<\/li>\n<li>A stable health condition makes it more likely that you and your baby have a healthy pregnancy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit our page on <a href=\"https:\/\/east-midlands-maternal-medicine-network.nhs.uk\/health-conditions\/\">specific health conditions<\/a>.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/medication-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"medication\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/medication-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/medication-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"z575\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-z575\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Medication<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-z575\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>Talk to your doctor about your medication<\/li>\n<li>For most medications the safest thing is to carry on. You and your baby are more likely to have a healthy pregnancy if you are well.<\/li>\n<li>Some medications need to be changed but <strong><u>do not stop medication <\/u><\/strong>without talking to your doctor or nurse first<\/li>\n<li>Sometimes additional vitamins or medicines are recommended<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information on specific medications visit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicinesinpregnancy.org\/\">Medicines in Pregnancy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Looking after your body<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small\"><div class=\"l-section-overlay\" style=\"background:var(--color-header-middle-bg)\"><\/div><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_2 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/be-active-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"be active\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/be-active-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/be-active-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"u63f\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-u63f\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Be active<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-u63f\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>Regular exercise like going for a walk or swimming helps to prepare your body for pregnancy<\/li>\n<li>Getting fit may help you to get pregnant<\/li>\n<li>Staying active reduces your risk of some pregnancy complications<\/li>\n<li>Exercising is good for your mental health<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.activepregnancyfoundation.org\/\">Active Pregnancy Foundation<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Eat-healthily-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"eat healthily\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Eat-healthily-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Eat-healthily-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"ef05\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-ef05\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Eat healthily<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-ef05\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>Try to eat five or more portions of fruit and vegetables a day<\/li>\n<li>Eat fresh food and food with protein and fibre<\/li>\n<li>Eating healthily will help your baby grow and can protect it from some health conditions later in life<\/li>\n<li>Healthy eating even before pregnancy helps baby\u2019s brain development<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nutrition.org.uk\/life-stages\/pregnancy\/healthy-eating-during-pregnancy\/trying-for-a-baby\/\">Trying for a baby &#8211; Nutrition.org.uk<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a75564fed915d6faf2b2375\/Eatwell_guide_colour.pdf\">Eatwell Guide &#8211; Public Health England<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mkchildrenshealth.cnwl.nhs.uk\/media\/1030\/eating-well.pdf\">Eating well for healthy pregnancy &#8211; First Steps Nutrition Trust<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small\"><div class=\"l-section-overlay\" style=\"background:var(--color-header-middle-bg)\"><\/div><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_2 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Healthy-weight-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Healthy weight\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Healthy-weight-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Healthy-weight-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"iac0\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-iac0\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Healthy weight<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-iac0\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>You are more likely to get pregnant if you are a healthy weight<\/li>\n<li>A healthy weight helps to avoid many pregnancy complications for you and your baby<\/li>\n<li>A healthy weight helps your baby to grow and develop when you are pregnant and beyond<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nutrition.org.uk\/life-stages\/pregnancy\/healthy-eating-during-pregnancy\/trying-for-a-baby\/\">Trying for a baby &#8211; Nutrition.org.uk<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mkchildrenshealth.cnwl.nhs.uk\/media\/1030\/eating-well.pdf\">Eating well for healthy pregnancy &#8211; First Steps Nutrition Trust<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Folic-acid-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Folic acid\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Folic-acid-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Folic-acid-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"v36c\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-v36c\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Folic acid<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-v36c\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>Folic acid is a vitamin that can help to prevent some birth defects<\/li>\n<li>It is available from pharmacies and some supermarkets<\/li>\n<li>Take it if you are trying to get pregnant<\/li>\n<li>If you have diabetes, epilepsy, are obese, or if you take certain medications you should take a higher dose that needs to be prescribed by your doctor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/pregnancy\/keeping-well\/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition\/#\">NHS.uk<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small\"><div class=\"l-section-overlay\" style=\"background:var(--color-header-middle-bg)\"><\/div><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_2 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Vitamin-D-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Vitamin-D\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Vitamin-D-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Vitamin-D-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"qee1\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-qee1\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Vitamin D<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-qee1\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>Vitamin D is in some foods but is also a tablet<\/li>\n<li>Our bodies create vitamin D from being in direct sunlight<\/li>\n<li>Take Vitamin D tablets throughout pregnancy to keep bones and muscles healthy<\/li>\n<li>This is particularly important if you have dark skin, are indoors most of the day, or wear clothes that cover up most of your skin<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/pregnancy\/keeping-well\/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition\/#\">NHS.uk<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Flu-and-Covid-jabs-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Flu and Covid jabs\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Flu-and-Covid-jabs-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Flu-and-Covid-jabs-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"n7e1\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-n7e1\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Flu and Covid jabs<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-n7e1\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>Pregnant women are more likely to get infections<\/li>\n<li>If you catch flu or Covid while pregnant you are more likely to become seriously ill<\/li>\n<li>The flu and Covid jab help to protect you and your baby from serious illness<\/li>\n<li>There are no concerns about the safety of the flu or Covid jabs in pregnancy &#8211; they are recommended<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rcog.org.uk\/guidance\/coronavirus-covid-19-pregnancy-and-women-s-health\/vaccination\/covid-19-vaccines-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding-faqs\/\">COVID-19 vaccines, pregnancy and breastfeeding &#8211; RCOG<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/covid-19-vaccination-women-of-childbearing-age-currently-pregnant-planning-a-pregnancy-or-breastfeeding\">COVID-19 vaccination: women who are pregnant or breastfeeding &#8211; GOV.uk<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.immunology.org\/public-information\/vaccine-resources\/covid-19\/covid-19-vaccine-infographics\">COVID-19 vaccination infographics &#8211; British Society of Immunology<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small\"><div class=\"l-section-overlay\" style=\"background:var(--color-header-middle-bg)\"><\/div><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_2 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Alcohol-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"alcohol\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Alcohol-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Alcohol-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"s3a7\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-s3a7\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Alcohol<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-s3a7\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>It is best not to drink alcohol while trying to get pregnant, and during pregnancy<\/li>\n<li>Try drinking fruit juice or water instead of alcohol<\/li>\n<li>You will feel healthier and sleep better if you don\u2019t drink alcohol<\/li>\n<li>Avoiding alcohol will protect your baby<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/pregnancy\/keeping-well\/drinking-alcohol-while-pregnant\/\">NHS.uk\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Smoking-1024x538-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Smoking\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Smoking-1024x538-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Smoking-1024x538-1-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion type_togglable has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:inherit\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_plus cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"lc76\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-lc76\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Smoking<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-lc76\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li>It is best not to smoke while trying to get pregnant, and during pregnancy<\/li>\n<li>Breathing in someone else\u2019s smoke is also a risk to your baby<\/li>\n<li>Help is available from your pharmacist, GP or midwife to stop smoking<\/li>\n<li>Avoiding smoking will protect your baby<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For more information visit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/better-health\/quit-smoking\/\">NHS.uk\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_medium\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>*ReadyforPregnancy graphics courtesy of South East England Maternity and Neonatal Team<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Are you thinking about becoming pregnant? This guide will help you to prepare if you have a health condition. Let your nurse and doctor know you are thinking about pregnancy. They are there to help you. Choose language: \u00a0 Pregnancy with a health condition Health conditions Most women with health conditions can have a healthy...","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":90,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-319","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/319","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=319"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/319\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":320,"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/319\/revisions\/320"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/90"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nencmaternalmedicine.nhs.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=319"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}