The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is particularly relevant to when applied to preventive measures taken during pregnancy, when a few extra ounces of birth weight can save a child’s life. During pregnancy, simple precautions can help avoid catastrophic results; giving up tobacco use, for instance, drastically reduces the risk of miscarriage and pre-term labor.

The March of Dimes reports that if all women took adequate folic acid before conception and during pregnancy, the number of babies born with a neural tube defect could drop by as much as 70%. The physical and emotional benefits of proper prenatal care to a mother and child are underscored by a strong business case for offering prenatal wellness benefits. Nationwide’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Michael Moore, estimates costs to care for one baby delivered prematurely could approach $500,000.

<h3>First steps in fostering a prenatal program: </h3>
• Invite the March of Dimes to present information about prenatal health at an employee brownbag lunch or breakfast meeting.
• Hold prenatal care information classes for interested staff members at lunchtime.
• Offer educational materials about the effects of alcohol, drugs and tobacco use on an unborn child.
• Offer incentives for adopting healthy lifestyles during pregnancy.
• Offer prenatal initiatives and education as part of the business medical package.