In this article:
1. Track Your Cycle (if you haven't previously)
To figure out the optimal "time" to become pregnant, you'll need to get quite acquainted with your menstrual cycle. The key to this is determining when you ovulate.2. Set Up A Preconception Appointment
The best approach to preparing for pregnancy is to keep your body in good health. The easiest approach to do this is to schedule a doctor's appointment. During your consultation, your doctor will review your medical history, assess any medical problems, and provide advice on how to have a happy, healthy pregnancy.This appointment is important because it helps to identify and prevent foetal maternal risks. Among some of the things you and your doctor will discuss are your medical history, any recommended immunisations, changes or adjustments to medications, and questions or concerns you have.- Your doctor or midwife will review your present health, as well as your family's health history. Certain health issues in your family might be passed on to your offspring. Your physician may recommend you to a genetic counsellor.
- You may require blood tests or vaccinations before becoming pregnant.
- Your doctor will discuss any medications, herbs, or supplements you are currently taking. They can harm an unborn foetus. Before you get pregnant, your general healthcare provider may suggest that you adjust your medications.
- Long-term health issues, such as asthma or diabetes, should be managed before becoming pregnant.
- If you are obese, your doctor would advise you to lose weight before pregnancy. This will lower your chances of developing pregnancy issues.
3. Visit The Dentist
Maintaining frequent dental appointments benefits not just your teeth and gums, but also your general health.Poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease might lead to pregnancy issues, including premature birth. Routine dental cleanings and treatments are recommended before pregnancy.4. Maintain A Well-Balanced Diet
Eating a variety of healthy meals is critical for overall health, particularly during pregnancy. You should consume a mix of healthy grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean meats. Hydration is also crucial, so drink lots of water daily.Keeping active while trying to conceive benefits you in a variety of ways. Exercise may help you maintain your ideal weight, decrease stress, and feel better during your pregnancy. A well-balanced diet will always benefit you. Maintain a nutritious diet before becoming pregnant. Here are some basic guidelines:- Limit empty calories, artificial sweeteners, and caffeine.
- Eat meals rich in protein.
- Fruits, grains, and dairy products can improve your health before you get pregnant.
- Eat three meals of fish every week, each weighing four ounces.
- Avoid huge ocean creatures like sharks and tilefish.
- Limit your tuna consumption to one can (85 g) of white tuna, one tuna steak, or two cans (170 g) of light tuna per week.
- Being overweight during pregnancy may raise your risk of developing complications such as high blood pressure, diabetes, miscarriage, stillbirth, birth abnormalities, and the need for a caesarean section.
- It is not a good idea to attempt to lose weight when pregnant. However, it is a good idea to gain a healthy body weight before getting pregnant.
5. Take Folic Acid
Certain vitamins, notably folic acid, are essential for foetal health and development, as well as lowering the chance of birth abnormalities such as cleft lip and palate and spina bifida. Experts advise that all women of reproductive age consume at least 0.4 milligrams (mg) of folic acid one to three months before conception.Women with a higher chance of delivering a child with neural tube abnormalities are advised to take larger amounts of folic acid, 1-4 mg per day. This should also begin one to three months before conception and continue until 12 weeks of pregnancy.Folic acid lowers the chance of birth malformations, particularly spinal abnormalities.Start taking a folic acid-containing vitamin before trying to conceive.Avoid taking large amounts of any vitamin, particularly vitamins A, D, E, and K. If you consume more of these vitamins than the recommended daily quantity, you may have birth abnormalities. Regular pregnancy prenatal vitamins do not include excessive amounts of any vitamin.By following these precautions, you may set the foundation for a healthier and more bearable pregnancy experience. Tracking your cycle, speaking with your healthcare professional, keeping excellent oral hygiene, maintaining a balanced diet, and getting enough folic acid are all important aspects of successful preconception planning. Each stage contributes to improving your health and well-being, resulting in a smoother transition into pregnancy. Remember that your efforts before conception may have a substantial impact on the result, paving the way for a healthy start for both you and your future child.FAQs On 5 Ways To Prepare Before Trying To Conceive
- Why is it important to follow my menstrual cycle before attempting to conceive?Tracking your menstrual cycle helps you calculate your ovulation period, which is critical for timing intercourse and increasing your chances of pregnancy. Understanding your cycle may also aid in detecting any anomalies that may need medical care.
- What are the benefits of folic acid before and during pregnancy?Folic acid is required for foetal development and may help avoid birth abnormalities such as neural tube disorders. Folic acid supplementation before and throughout early pregnancy promotes healthy development and lowers the likelihood of some defects in the infant.