ASK (1 minute)
* How much weight does the patient expect to gain with this pregnancy?
* How much weight has the patient gained in previous pregnancies?
* Has the patient had any problems with weight in the past (obesity, eating disorders, etc.)?
* How does the patient feel about gaining weight during her pregnancy?

Assess (1 minute)
* Assess BMI based on pre-pregnancy weight and height to determine recommended weight gain range.
* Plot and track weight gain on Prenatal Weight Gain grid at each appointment.
* Determine if lack of food or poverty is contributing to poor nutrition
* Does the patient suffer from severe nausea, vomiting, heartburn or constipation?
* Does the patient suffer from depression or have other high stress in her life?

ADVISE (1 minute)
* Provide clear, strong, personalized weight gain information based on the woman's BMI category
* Discuss the appropriate rate of weight gain to optimize the chances of a healthy pregnancy, healthy delivery, and healthy baby
* Provide personalized information linking behavior change to positive and negative birth outcomes

ASSIST (3 minutes +)
* Discuss and use problem-solving methods for coping with nausea and other gastrointestinal concerns
* Provide appropriate information on nutrition and reassure the patient that weight gain is related to the baby's growth and development

ARRANGE (1 minute +)
* Refer patients to WIC, Food Stamps, and food pantries if needed.
* Refer patients to the social worker and/or dietitian for assistance with stress and more intense nutritional counseling
* Refer to a mental health professional and dietitian if an eating disorder is suspected
* Refer to Nurse Family Partnership or Prenatal Plus if the patient is on Medicaid or low income
 



Healthy Baby Is Worth The Weight
A Healthy Baby is Worth the Weight: A video for expecting mothers
National Women's Health Week - May 9-15, 2010 - It's Your Time! The Woman Challenge - Join! - May 9 through July 3, 2010 - womenshealth.gov
Phone: (303) 692-2487
Email: Healthy Baby Campaign

Postal Mail Address:
Healthy Baby Campaign
PSD-WH-A4
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246-1530

The Women’s Health Section, and Grant Number 2 B04 MC 00337-07 from the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (Title V, Social Security Act), Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services supports the contents of this Web site. All information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.