Healthy strategies for parents-to-be

DALLAS, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- If having a healthy baby is tops on the list of New Year's resolutions, a U.S. doctor has some advice for parents-to-be.

Dr. Lisa Halverson, an obstetrician-gynecologist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, advises prospective moms and dads to start some healthy habits right away.

"By following a few simple steps, a couple may avoid potential complications for both mother and baby," Halverson said in a statement

Halverson says healthful pre-pregnancy strategies include:

-- Stopping smoking and drinking. Mothers-to-be should stop smoking, but fathers-to-be should be aware that alcohol as well as cigarettes can reduce male fertility.

-- Taking steps to prevent prospective moms from exposure to dangerous chemicals at work and rodent or feline feces at home. Prospective dads who handle dangerous chemicals, such as agricultural pesticides or fertilizers, should get in the habit of changing clothes immediately upon coming home, and washing those clothes separately.

-- Learning about good nutrition and setting up a good diet and exercise program.