Since you are depending on your healthcare professional to give you the best advice and care during your pregnancy and delivery, you need to be honest and open. It is important that your doctor or midwife know any medical information that could impact you or your unborn baby.

If you have taken illegal drugs during the first few months of your pregnancy or if you are still doing so now, you will need to share this information with your doctor. If you are consuming alcohol, your doctor will need to know. Yes, you will probably receive a lecture about the dangers of your drug or alcohol habits on you and your baby. Try to put aside any rebellious reactions to being told what to do. What’s important now is for you to maintain healthy habits during your pregnancy, because they will affect the physical and mental development of the baby you are carrying – and have far-reaching effects on your child’s life.

Your doctor will also need to know about any chronic illnesses or disorders that you have been or are being treated for, including venereal disease or HIV exposure. Plus, you will need to list for your doctor any medications you are presently taking or that you should be taking to maintain your health.