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They say timing is everything, and that's certainly true if you're thinking about having a baby. Some moms-to-be don't realize they should begin acting as if they are pregnant months before they actually conceive. This timeline can help increase your odds for a safe pregnancy and healthy new baby.

Before

If you plan to get pregnant within the year, talk to your doctor. A complete examination and medical history can identify health concerns that need attention. Discuss all prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements you take to be sure there aren't any that might harm the baby once you're pregnant. You also should be eating a well-balanced diet with foods that are high in iron and calcium and low in fat while also finding time to exercise.

Make sure you consume enough folic acid, which is a vitamin that helps reduce the risk of some serious birth defects. To work best, folic acid needs to be in your system during the first weeks of your pregnancy. Good sources of folic acid include fortified orange juice, beans and a variety of green vegetables. Talk to your doctor about taking a folic acid supplement a few months before you get pregnant.

Alcohol, tobacco and drugs can cause serious harm to a developing baby, so quit now. Give your body time to rid itself of these toxins. Then stay alcohol-, tobacco- and drug-free throughout the pregnancy.

During

As soon as you think you may be pregnant, call your doctor to confirm your pregnancy. Your first visit should be within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and check-ups should remain regular.

Continue to eat right. Your diet will significantly affect your baby's health. A study of pregnant women conducted at the Harvard School of Public Health found that 95 percent of participants whose diets were good to excellent delivered babies in good to excellent health. Additionally, participating in regular exercise during pregnancy, with your doctor's approval, can relieve backaches and stress, increase endurance, prevent constipation and varicose veins and help speed your recovery after delivery. The Blount Memorial Wellness Center at Springbrook offers a prenatal and postnatal exercise program for all expectant moms. Learn more by calling 980-7100.

Any kind of drug can impair the health of your baby -- even over-the-counter medications such as aspirin and cough syrup. Never take any medication without your doctor's consent.

After

After delivery, you'll be seeing your baby's doctor often. But don't forget your own health. You should see your physician within four to six weeks after delivery. If anything seems amiss, such as excessive bleeding, concerns regarding breastfeeding or changes in your mood that seem more than "baby blues" (which could signal postpartum depression), make sure you discuss it with your physician. After all, your new baby needs a healthy and happy mom.

Along the way, moms-to-be and new parents also can find support through the Blount Memorial Family Birthing Center, which offers monthly education classes and support. Find a complete list of classes at www.blountmemorial.org or call 981-3983.

The Women's Health column is provided by the staff and associates of Blount Memorial Hospital. It appears every Sunday in Women's Times. For more information on this column call 983-7211.