What Do I Need to Tell the Patient/Patient’s Family?
› Achieving recommended weight gain during pregnancy is normal and necessary
› Prenatal supplements and a maternal diet adequate in protein, fruits, and vegetables are vital for normal fetal development
› Avoid alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and caffeine intake > 300 mg/day
› Dietary fish provide the essential nutrient DHA. Avoid eating fish that are known to be high in mercury
› Patients who are experiencing financial difficulty may qualify for the food stamp program or the Special Supplemental
Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which provide nutrition counseling and food vouchers for staple food
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