Family Planning Plus

If you had a moderately heavy flow on the first day of your period, pregnancy is unlikely. You may find that your period starts up again. However, if it doesn’t and you miss your next period, take a pregnancy test just in case.

If you are not planning a pregnancy, please don’t continue to have unprotected sex. Either abstain from sexual intercourse or use condoms from start to finish for each sex act. If you are interested in starting a hormonal method of birth control and you live near one of our offices, please give us a call for an appointment. If you live further away, contact the Family Planning or Planned Parenthood office closest to you.

If you are planning a pregnancy, here are some steps you can take to help ensure a positive pregnancy outcome:

• Schedule a pre-pregnancy appointment with your doctor.  Let your doctor know you are planning a pregnancy.  Your doctor will review your family health history, be sure you have the proper immunizations, review your medications, schedule any needed tests, and discuss your present health behaviors/lifestyle and recommend changes.
• Begin taking a daily multivitamin with 400 mcg of folic acid ( a B vitamin that prevents birth defects of the brain and spine).
• Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Don’t use street drugs, and check with a doctor before using prescription or over-the-counter medications (some medications are not safe to use during pregnancy).
• Eat healthfully and maintain a healthy weight.
• Be sure to get regular preventive medical care.
• Reduce the amount of stress in your life (if possible).
• Get regular exercise.  Walking, swimming, stretching, and housework are all good exercise choices before and during pregnancy.

Good luck!