National Birth Defects Prevention Month


January is Birth Defects Prevention Month. The theme for 2021 is “Best for You. Best for Baby.” We know that not all birth defects can be prevented. But, you can increase your chances of having a healthy baby by doing what you can to be your healthiest self both before and during pregnancy. What is best for you is also best for your baby.

The NBDPN Education and Outreach Committee has developed materials and resources to assist state program staff and others interested in raising awareness during National Birth Defects Prevention Month.


Jump to:
Best for You. Best for Baby
Prevent to Protect
Make a PACT
 

Best for You. Best for Baby


Download the entire 2021 packet - PDF

Best for You. Best for Baby - English Video

 

Materials:

  • 2021 "Best for You. Best for Baby" theme resources PDF
  • Tools you can use  PDF
  • Sample proclamation MS Word  |  PDF
  • Sample news release MS Word  |  PDF
  • Educational Flyer: Tips for Dad  PDF
  • Social media how-to  PDF
  • Materials for partners  PDF
  • Videos English | Spanish
  • Social media graphics here
Partner Resources: Additional Resources:

 

Prevent to Protect



Download the entire 2018 packet - PDF        



Materials:

  • 2018 "Prevent to Protect" theme resources PDF 
  • Sample proclamation MS Word  |  PDF
  • Sample news releases MS Word  |  PDF                                                       
  • Sample newsletter articles MS Word  |  PDF
  • Sample letters MS Word  PDF
  • Fact sheet for policy makers MS Word  |  PDF
  • Educational resources for Men MS Word  PDF
  • Materials for local Public Health departments MS Word  |  PDF
Social Media Resources: 

     

    Make a PACT for Prevention 



    Download the entire 2016 packet - PDF

    "Making Healthy Choices to Prevent Birth Defects - Make a PACT for Prevention." We know that not all birth defects can be prevented. But, we also know that women can increase their chances of having a healthy baby by managing health conditions and adopting healthy behaviors before and during pregnancy. Please encourage all pregnant women and those who may become pregnant to make a PACT to:
     
    • Plan ahead
      • Get as healthy as possible before becoming pregnant. 
      • Get 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day.
    • Avoid harmful substances
      • Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.                                                                              
      • Be careful with harmful exposures at work and home.
    • Choose a healthy lifestyle
      • Eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean proteins.
      • Be physically active.
      • Work to get medical conditions like diabetes under control.
    • Talk to your healthcare provider
      • Get a medical checkup.
      • Discuss all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.
      • Talk about your family medical history.