MOM Matters^® Program

Gateway Health Plan^® has a special program for pregnant women called MOM Matters^®. This program provides education and support to help you have a healthy pregnancy. Specially trained nurses can answer your questions or concerns about your pregnancy. The nurses can also help with community service referrals. You will also receive information on pregnancy and baby care in the mail.

Here are some helpful tips for your pregnancy:

• Keep all of your prenatal appointments. If you miss an appointment, call your doctor to reschedule. Do not wait until your next visit.
• Take the prenatal vitamins prescribed by your doctor.
• Avoid alcohol, illegal drugs and smoking. Second hand smoke can harm you and your unborn child. Get help to quit smoking by calling Pennsylvania's Quitline at 1-800-784-8669 or 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
• Never take any medicines without checking with your doctor first. This includes prescription medications and over the counter medications like aspirin, Tylenol and cough syrup.
• Eat at least 3 meals a day and choose healthy foods like fruit, meat, milk, vegetables, breads and cereals.
• Avoid foods like coffee, soda pop, fast foods, candy and doughnuts.
• Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water every day. Juice and milk are also healthy choices.
• Keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing and flossing daily. Gum infections can increase the risk of preterm labor.
• Wear your lap and shoulder belts when you are in a car. The lap portion should be low under your belly and touching your thighs.

If you would like more information about the MOM Matters^® Program, call 1-800-642-3550 and press #2. The nurses are available Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. by phone.