Pregnancy is a time to focus on the health and wellbeing of you and your developing baby. Looking after yourself both physically and emotionally is very important.  Spending time reading information may help you to make healthy choices and increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

Barwon Health uses a digital platform called I-COPE that screens for symptoms of depression and anxiety and assesses psychosocial risk factors. A text message with a link to the screening tool will be sent to you on the day of your booking-in appointment and 28 week antenatal appointment. For more information please visit www.cope.org.au/health-professionals/icope-digital-screening/

There are some things you can do to take care of yourself and your baby during pregnancy:

  • Do not smoke and stay away from other people when they smoke. If you smoke, seek help and support to quit or cut down on the number of cigarettes you smoke. Contact the Quitline – 131 848.
  • Do not drink alcohol. There are no known safe levels for pregnancy. Not drinking alcohol is the safest option.
  • Do not use illicit drugs. If you have a problem with illicit drugs, tell your maternity carer early in pregnancy.
  • Have a whooping cough vaccination between 20 and 32 weeks to maximise protection against whooping cough for your baby.
  • Have an influenza vaccine during every pregnancy and at any stage of your pregnancy. The influenza vaccine is free for pregnant women as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
  • Look after your teeth. Poor oral health in pregnant women can contribute to lower birth weight and premature births and increases the risk of early dental decay in children.
  • Eat well and drink water every day.
  • Regular gentle exercise like walking or swimming is good for you, avoid high contact sports. For further information please visit the Pelvic Floor First website.
  • Learn about and practise pelvic floor muscle exercises –  Continence Foundation of Australia and The Women’s.
  • Always wear a seat belt no matter what stage of pregnancy. The seat belt should be positioned above and below the bump.

Page last updated: June 30, 2024