Safe Motherhood Safe motherhood begins before conception with proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle and continues with appropriate prenatal care, the prevention of complications when possible, and the early and effective treatment of complications. The ideal result is a pregnancy at term without unnecessary interventions, the delivery of a healthy infant, and a healthy postpartum period in a positive environment that supports the physical and emotional needs of the woman, infant, and family.

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To better understand the burden of maternal complications and mortality and to decrease disparities among populations at risk of death and complications from pregnancy, the Division of Reproductive Health supports national and state-based surveillance systems to monitor trends and investigate health issues; conducts epidemiologic, behavioral, demographic, and health services research; and works with partners to translate research findings into health care practice, public health policy, and health promotion strategies.

	Emergency Planning Tips If You're Pregnant or Have Young Children If you are pregnant or someone with infants or young children, find out how to plan for an emergency or disaster.
	National Prematurity Awareness Month More than a half million babies in the United States are born premature each year. Some babies are so small they could fit in the palm of your hand. If you're pregnant, learn about the risk factors for premature birth.
	Fourteenth Annual Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology Conference: Call for Abstracts December 10–12, 2008 Crowne Plaza Hotel - Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia Atlanta, Georgia
	Pregnant? Don't Smoke: Learn Why and How to Quit for Good Quitting smoking can be hard, but it is one of the best ways a woman can protect herself and her baby's health. For free help, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
	Don’t Get the Flu. Don’t Spread the Flu. Get Vaccinated. Influenza (flu) season is approaching. CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. Influenza (flu) season is approaching. CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. This year, CDC includes pregnant women and those who may become pregnant during flu season. CDC recommendations on vaccines and pregnancy are updated throughout the year.

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