6 Things To Do In Advance To Promote A Healthful Pregnancy

If you’re planning to become pregnant soon, I encourage you to prepare in as many ways as you can, including physically, mentally, and emotionally. Of course, your health practitioner team should be your best resource for information. That said, I also recommend listening to your body and doing your own research in addition to asking a lot of questions. I’ve compiled some basic things you can start thinking about even before you visit your doctor for the first time. 

So what can you do in advance to promote a healthful pregnancy?

Quit Bad Habits

Though smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking recreational drugs can be fine on occasion for most women, they certainly are not during pregnancy. Furthermore, if you are currently trying to become pregnant, both you and your partner need to abstain from these things. Keep in mind, such changes could be difficult, so give yourself plenty of time to make the transition. Do also seek help help from your doctor or counselor if you need to. 

It would also be helpful to limit stress and emotional upsets as much as you can during this time. Conception and pregnancy will be easier and much more pleasant if you are balanced and feeling your best.

Visit the Dentist

Though dental care might not be on the top of your list of things to do before getting pregnant, it is something to consider. If fact, gum disease has been linked to a higher risk of miscarriage and pre-term delivery. Your oral health is important normally, but even more so when you are pregnant. Your climbing hormone levels and extra blood volume can make your gums bleed and raise your risk of dental problems. If you haven’t been to the dentist for a while, I recommend taking the time for a checkup. If you are in the area, a practice such as https://www.menloparksmiles.com can take care of any preexisting dental issues you might have prior to pregnancy.

Lose Excess Weight

Being underweight or overweight can cause complications during pregnancy or conception. I recommend that you consult your  doctor about your ideal weight range well in advance of conception. As you know, weight changes can take a long time, depending on where you are and where you want to be. Give yourself enough time to meet your goals for best results. Please don’t go on any drastic diets to lose weight as they can affect fertility, too. Eat a good diet for the majority of the time. This way, you can have treats occasionally. 

Start Taking a Prenatal Vitamin

Doctors recommend that women should take folic acid daily if they are planning to get pregnant, and until at least the end of the first trimester. Folic acid has been found to reduce the risks of the infant developing dangerous conditions. Again, consult with your doctor for what supplements to take before, during, and after pregnancy. 

Start an Exercise Routine

Establishing an exercise routine before you conceive is highly recommended for your overall health and fertility. After all, once you are pregnant starting a new physical activity could be more challenging and could come with a higher risk for injury. You should know that pregnancy and motherhood require stamina that you might not have right now. Building up your resilience can also help you cope with labor and recover faster after birth. 

Review Your Medications

If you’re taking prescription medications, you’ll need to inform your doctor that you’re thinking of getting pregnant in the near future. He/she will be able to review your current medications for anything that would interfere with your fertility or cause any problems to an unborn baby. Additionally, let your doctor know about any supplements you take or other treatments you currently receive. 

**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, its owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors, and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.