Preparing for Pregnancy: Health Tips Before You Conceive
The future of your kids does not start at the time of birth, but much before it. Planning for pregnancy is important for many reasons. With an unplanned pregnancy, a woman may not know she is pregnant for several weeks. By that time, the baby's major organs are already forming. ACOG says the first 8 weeks of pregnancy is when the major organs develop. There is a chance that the woman may be smoking, drinking or taking medicines during this time. Planning your pregnancy can help you avoid these risks.
In fact, both parents should make changes to their lifestyle before planning a child. Scientists who study epigenetics are learning that lifestyle may change how genes work, but there is still a lot to learn. What we do know is that the father's health matters too. ACOG says smoking, drinking alcohol and using drugs may damage a man's sperm cells and harm the baby. So it is important that both partners take part, instead of leaving the job only to the woman.
Getting ready for pregnancy
Stopping drinking, smoking and taking street drugs is a must, and both partners should start eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. The CDC says there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. To stick to a healthy routine, it helps if a couple does healthy things together, from cooking at home to exercising together. ACOG suggests 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, like a 30 minute workout 5 days a week. Doing things together also helps you support each other.
Women carry the baby, so there are a few extra steps a woman planning to get pregnant should take.
- See your doctor and talk about your plans, your current health and how it may affect a pregnancy. If it is not your first child, tell your doctor about your earlier pregnancies and any health problems you had.
Bring all your medicines to your doctor visit and ask if they are safe during pregnancy. ACOG says not to stop any prescription medicine before you talk to your doctor. Get tested for infections that can be passed through sex, and ACOG says all women should be tested for HIV. If you have a long term illness like diabetes, asthma or high blood pressure, make sure it is well controlled before you get pregnant.
Get the vaccines you need before you try to get pregnant. ACOG says some vaccines cannot be given during pregnancy, so it is best to get them first. The flu shot and the Tdap shot are safe during pregnancy.
- The CDC recommends that you take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, starting at least 1 month before you get pregnant. It can help prevent serious birth defects of the brain and spine. ACOG says to take a daily prenatal vitamin with folic acid before and during pregnancy. Do not take more vitamins than your doctor tells you to.
- Learn about your family history, as some diseases run in families. Sharing your family history helps your doctor make good choices and take extra steps for a healthy pregnancy.
- Try to reach a healthy weight before you get pregnant. The NICHD says obesity raises the risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, which is a type of high blood pressure in pregnancy. ACOG says being underweight can also cause problems. Moderate exercise can usually continue during pregnancy too.
Finally and most importantly, spending quality time together often helps increase your chances of getting pregnant. You can also learn to track your ovulation to help with planning. If you already have a baby, ACOG says it is best to wait at least 18 months after giving birth before getting pregnant again.
Once you are pregnant, keep up your new healthy habits and see your doctor regularly. To learn what happens next, read about the first month of pregnancy. Creating a peaceful space early on by listening to soothing bedtime lullabies and gentle music helps start a relaxing routine for both you and your baby during this special journey. A soft lullaby like All My Love Goes to You is a sweet way to begin.
Questions About Preparing for Pregnancy
When should I start taking folic acid?
The CDC says to take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, starting at least 1 month before you get pregnant, and keep taking it during pregnancy.
Should I see a doctor before trying to get pregnant?
Yes. Your doctor can check your medicines, vaccines, weight and any health problems, and help you get ready for a healthy pregnancy.
Does the father's health matter?
Yes. ACOG says smoking, drinking alcohol and using drugs may damage a man's sperm cells and harm the baby. Both partners should quit before trying.
Is any amount of alcohol safe when trying to get pregnant?
The CDC says there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Since you may not know you are pregnant right away, it is best to stop when you start trying.
How long should I wait between pregnancies?
ACOG says it is best to wait at least 18 months after giving birth before getting pregnant again.
This post is for general information only. It is not medical advice. If you have questions about your health or your pregnancy, please talk to your doctor.
- Tags: Health, Parenting Tips, Pregnancy