Bright Steps

Are you pregnant? Are you trying to conceive? CalOptima’s Bright Steps program may be able to help you throughout your pregnancy and after your baby is born. Bright Steps helps you have a healthy pregnancy and baby. The program teaches you about healthy eating, getting your testing done on time and gives resources. Bright Steps works to increase healthy full-term deliveries. All Bright Steps services are provided at no cost to CalOptima members.

Healthy eating is more important now than ever! Choose foods that are high in fiber and low in sugar, solid fats and salt. Although you are eating for two, it doesn’t mean you should be eating twice as much. A general guide for food portions are:

Talk to your doctor about the foods you are eating and what exercise is best for your health during your pregnancy.

During pregnancy, your doctor may suggest many preventive tests. Some exams are advised for all women, such as screenings for gestational diabetes, genetic and HIV testing. More tests might be offered based on your age, health history and ethnic background. It is very important to get these tests done as soon as your doctor tells you. The tests may spot risks of possible health problems in you or your baby.

If so, talk to your doctor about options that could decrease your chance to deliver early again. If you are concerned about having another preterm baby, please call CalOptima’s Health Management department at 1-888-587-8088.

Make sure to see your doctor often while you are pregnant, and after having your baby. Your postpartum checkup should be done between 3 and 8 weeks after your baby is born. It is important to tell your doctor how you are feeling during this visit, especially if you are feeling any “baby blues” or depression. If you have a C-section, you will have an extra appointment about 2 weeks after you deliver as a post-operation doctor visit. This visit is not your postpartum checkup, so make sure you go to both.

To learn more about these no-cost Bright Steps services, please call CalOptima’s Health Management department at 1-888-587-8088. We are here to help you Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or call CalOptima Customer Service toll-free at 1-888-587-8088 and ask for the Health Management department. TDD/TTY users can call toll-free at 1-800-735-2929. We have staff who speak your language.