Having a preterm baby can be the most terrifying experience on earth. It’s the number one cause of death for infants, occurring in 1 in 8 live births. Many mothers have conditions that cannot yet be prevented, as science cannot yet identify the correct cause (such as preeclampsia); however, there are a number of things you can do to help create the most healthy pregnancy and birth to your own ability.

Maintain Good Prenatal Care

Seeing your OB/GYN regularly is your first line of defense against an early delivery. He or she can monitor you and help keep you on track, as well as pinpoint any potential problems or risk factors.

Take Your Prenatal Vitamins

Plenty of iron and folic acid are integral in maintaining a full term pregnancy.

Wait—Or Don’t Delay

Women under 20 and over 40 are more likely to have preterm baby births, so just by waiting until you’re twenty—or having your baby before age 40—you can cut your risk.

Avoid Smoking, Alcohol and Street Drugs

Smoking, drinking alcohol, using drugs, and being malnourished all increase your chances of delivering your baby prematurely.

Relax

Women who suffer from lots of stress are more likely to give birth prematurely. Talk to your doctor about good ways to relax and enjoy your pregnancy.

Avoid ANY Unnecessary Drugs

Check with your doctor about any and all medications, herbs, vitamins and basically anything you’re putting into your body. Certain herbs and medicines can increase your chances of delivering early.

Exercise

Studies have found that women who continue to move their bodies during the early stages of pregnancy have a lower risk of delivering prematurely. Be sure to go over your exercise plans with your doctor so he or she can advise you on what your safest workout might be.

Maintain a Healthy Body

By keeping a healthy weight, blood pressure, and overall body health, and especially maintaining a good diet during pregnancy, a mother can increase the health of her baby. Being a healthy weight—not overweight or underweight—also helps decrease your risk of delivering prematurely, so keep that in mind.

Keep Fertility Treatment Dangers in Mind

Pregnancies with multiple babies are more likely to result in premature delivery. In fact, for each additional baby, the risk increases even more.

Adopt or Foster Children

If you’ve already given birth to a preemie, your chances of having another are higher. You may wish to consider having a child through other means rather than risking another pregnancy.