The New York State Department of Health convened an expert panel of health care professionals who are involved in promoting the health of pregnant women and children.  Since it is highly unlikely that a sufficient number of studies will be available in the near future to make evidence-based recommendations for all clinical situations, the group relied on expert consensus when controlled studies were not available to address specific issues and concerns.The panel developed separate recommendations for prenatal, oral health and child health professionals. While specific treatments require attention to individual clinical situations, these recommendations are intended to bring about changes in the health care delivery system and to improve the overall standard of care.