Timeline of a Healthy Pregnancy-Infographic

I really like infographics. They're pictures that can teach something in an interesting and visual way, which is very helpful for people with attention span problems like me. If you're in the same boat and are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, here's a useful outline of what a healthy pregnancy should be like.
http://dailyinfographic.com/the-path-to-a-healthy-pregnancy-infographic
The Path To A Healthy Pregnancy


Here are some parts I found particularly interesting.


-Stay away from kitty litter boxes. Used cat litter can cause a syndrome called toxoplasmosis, a disorder that can result in birth defects. You can read more about it here http://www.momsnewbaby.com/2012/01/what-is-toxoplasmosis-and-can-your-baby.html

-Talk about genetic counseling. This isn't necessarily a "must", but many parents who are concerned about passing medical conditions or other traits down to their children-either directly or simply by virtue of race or ethnic group-might want to have some sort of test done so they'll be prepared if the child does indeed have the trait. There are also chromosomal disorders like Down Syndrome of Tay-sachs that aren't directly inherited but can still be very difficult to live with or, in the case of the latter, fatal. Like I said, this isn't a “must”, but it might put your mind at ease. For more information, check out http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/medical/genetic_counseling.html



-Save cord blood. This is another thing that isn't a “must” but could be beneficial down the line. The blood in the umbilical cord contains stem cells that can turn into other types of cells and be useful if your child gets hurt or sick and needs them. They are also good to help other family members. The problem some have with this is that a) the chance that the blood will every be used are pretty low, and b) it can be very expensive. You can read more about this here http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/features/banking-your-babys-cord-blood

-Have amniocentesis if you are over 35. This test would be done for the same reason as genetic counseling-to assess the chances of birth defects. They're usually offered to women over 35 because we have a higher risk of birth defects such as Down Syndrome, but it's not a requirement. You can read more about the test here http://www.parents.com/pregnancy/stages/amniocentesis/prenatal-testing-amniocentesis/.



Enjoy!