When you’ve made up your mind to get pregnant, chances are you’re emotionally ready for the ride. But what about your body? Many couples, especially first-time parents, overestimate the value of pre-pregnancy planning. What you do before you get pregnant can have lasting effects on your pregnancy and your baby’s health, so knowing what you’re up against is vital.
Conception normally occurs about two weeks before a woman’s period is due. That means by the time most couples find out they’re expecting, the baby will have been around for at least two weeks. It’s around this time that a baby’s vital organs start developing, so it’s a rather delicate period.
Conditioning your body—basically, acting like you’re pregnant even before you know you are—can greatly reduce the chances of complication during this crucial time. Here are some of the questions you should ask yourself before taking that step.
Are you on birth control?
More specifically, what type have you been using? Barrier methods like condoms and diaphragms can simply be stopped, but the pill, for example, may require a doctor’s nod. Some brands require you to stop for a week before you can conceive, allowing your reproductive system to adjust to the new regime. If you’re using long-term methods such as injections and IUDs, you can start trying as soon as you stop using them, although it may take a few months before you’re fertile again.
Do you have all your vaccines?
Make sure you have full protection against infections that can complicate your pregnancy or be passed on to your child. Chickenpox, hepatitis B, and German measles can be particularly harmful to your baby. Get all your vaccines up to date at least a month before you start trying.
Do you have existing health problems?
Chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, and high blood pressure can get in the way of getting pregnant, complicate pregnancy, or both. Bring these up with your doctor at least a few weeks before trying to conceive, so that you’ll have time to get them under control. You may have to switch to a different medication, arrange for special care, or make a few lifestyle adjustments.
Make sure to mention any supplements or medications you’re taking as well, as some of them can interfere with your baby’s development. Your doctor may prescribe prenatal vitamins early on to ensure proper development of the neural tube (which will become the spinal cord and brain) during the first month.
Are you in a high-risk group?
Some women are naturally predisposed to pregnancy complications, while others have sexually transmitted infections that make their pregnancies more delicate. If you or someone in your family has had such problems before, tell your doctor so they can take steps to lower your risk. Common problems include ectopic pregnancies (when the egg is implanted outside the uterus) and miscarriages. Schedule a pre-conception screening to identify these problems early on.
Is your lifestyle fit for pregnancy?
It’s a given that getting pregnant requires a shift to a healthier lifestyle. A balanced diet and proper exercise are vital, as well as controlling stress and keeping a clean environment. It’s a good time for you and your partner to quit smoking, drinking, and any other unhealthy habits. If you’re overweight or underweight, start working towards your ideal body mass index before trying to get pregnant.
Part of your pre-pregnancy planning is a full assessment of your lifestyle. Even minor factors like the time you go to sleep and how you get to work can affect your chances of pregnancy, so be as detailed as possible when talking to your doctor. Starting early will make it easier to keep up—consider it early training for parenthood and setting a good example for your future child.
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