Pregnancy Safety

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but also requires added care and caution to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the unborn child. Adopting essential safety tips can significantly reduce risks and promote a healthier pregnancy. One vital recommendation is the consistent and "correct use" of seat belts while riding in a motor vehicle throughout your pregnancy. This simple act can help protect against injury during sudden stops or the event of a crash. Additionally, expecting mothers should be aware of food safety guidelines to prevent listeriosis, a bacterial infection that can harm both mother and baby. This includes thoroughly cooking meats, avoiding unpasteurized dairy products, and washing fruits and vegetables carefully. In addition, toxoplasmosis is another foodborne illness, that with proper steps can keep you and your baby safe. Practicing the following safety measures, can help you have a safer and healthier prenatal experience.

This information is intended to provide you with evidence-based safety recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or pregnancy. For additional resources, also visit Health and Wellness.

Seat Belts during Pregnancy

Motor vehicle crashes are among the leading causes of injury-related death and hospitalizations in the U.S. among women who are pregnant.
Wearing a lap-shoulder seat belt “properly” every time you ride in a motor vehicle throughout your pregnancy, is shown to protect you and your baby (Am J Lifestyle Med, 2012, 6(3): 241-249.
Visit "how to wear a seat belt properly or call the Car Seat Hotline at 323-491-6197.

Car Seat Education and Installation - Between 32nd and 35th Week

Talk with a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) certified child passenger safety technician (CPST) for consultation on the best car seat for your lifestyle and compatibility with your vehicle.
Have a CPST teach you how to install, test, and use your car seat properly, between your 32nd and 35th week of pregnancy.
Visit our Home page or call 323-491-6197 to talk with a live CPST.

For Your Baby's Sake - Eat Safe!

For Your Baby's Sake, Eat Safe, includes two food safety programs to keep you and your baby safe and healthy.

Preventing Listeriosis Among Pregnant Women

Women who are pregnant are 20 times more likely to become infected with listeriosis, a foodborne illness caused by eating ready-to-eat sliced processed delicatessen (deli) meat, smoked fish, deli foods, raw and unpasteurized milk, contaminated pasteurized milk after pasteurization, soft cheese, and any uncooked foods such as those at salad bars. Learn more on how to keep you and your baby safe from Listeriosis, visit, "Preventing Listeriosis Among Pregnant Women".

Preventing Toxoplasmosis during Your Pregnancy

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) organism. It can pose serious health risks for expectant mothers and their developing babies. However, there are simple guidelines too keep you and your baby, safe and healthy. Visit "Preventing Toxoplasmosis during Pregnancy".

Parent's Guide: Helping Your Child Thrive During a New Sibling Arrival

Welcoming a new sibling is an exciting milestone for your family. While it brings joy and new opportunities for growth, it can also stir a mix of emotions in your child—ranging from curiosity and happiness to feelings of insecurity or jealousy. Supporting your child's emotional well-being during this transition is key to helping them feel secure, loved, and confident. With thoughtful preparation and attentive guidance, you can turn this family change into a positive experience that strengthens your child's sense of belonging and resilience. Doing so not only fosters harmony at home but also sets the foundation for your child's social and emotional development.

Ready to learn how to support your child's feelings and navigate this transition smoothly? Click to explore helpful guidelines and tailored strategies for preschoolers, school-aged children, and teens. Empower yourself with the tools to nurture your child's emotional health during this special time.