Prenatal Care

The program provides health services by means of a health information line for anyone in the State of California who is concerned about exposures that might affect a pregnancy. Services include a medical information line, professional continuing education for teratogenic counseling, and teratogenic counseling services. There are no geographic restrictions.

The program provides confidential counseling via telephone, email or chat about the use of prescription medications, over the counter medications, alcohol, cigarettes, street drugs, infectious diseases and other physical agents that may be harmful to an unborn child. The agency also provides information about the effects of medications on lactation. This service is offered to the general public, pregnant and lactating women, women planning their pregnancy, and all health care providers. This information is available to those planning adoption. A written report may be requested.

In addition, the program provides professional continuing education for physicians on the principles of teratology through in-service workshops and the publication of research abstracts.

Women who enroll in a follow-up program are offered additional services. They may receive testing services for their child during the pregnancy and after the birth of the child.

Referrals to drug treatment and smoking cessation are provided. Also referrals to Access for Infants and Mother and Medi-Cal. Eligible pregnant women are offered the opportunity to participate in research. Health care providers are encouraged to call. In-service workshops are available.