It’s an exciting time in your life when you decide to have a baby. Knowing when you’re ready and preparing for a baby’s arrival includes many different steps. Being in good health prior to pregnancy can play a big role in the ability to get pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy and birth process.
Women considering a pregnancy, should first check in with their doctor,” says SSM Health family physician Dr. Roopa Shah. “Your doctor will discuss your personal and family health histories and work with you to make any necessary plans related to existing conditions or family histories that could make getting pregnant more difficult.
Additionally, there may be lifestyle changes to consider before you get pregnant. For example, if you’re a smoker, quit smoking. Also consider reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption, as well as avoiding toxic substances and environmental contaminants like synthetic chemicals, metals and fertilizers. Routine and extended contact with contaminants can impact fertility in both men and women and make it harder for a couple to get pregnant.
Your mental health should also be a focus, says Dr. Shah. “Make sure you are taking care of your mental and emotional health as you navigate getting pregnant as well as through pregnancy and delivery. Everyone feels anxious and stressed from time to time, but if you are having trouble coping with anxiety and stress at any point in the process, talk with your doctor.
Once you think you’re ready to start trying to become pregnant, start taking folic acid, at least 400 micrograms per day.
Folic acid is a type of vitamin B that, when combined with folate from a varied diet, can help prevent some major birth defects like anencephaly and spina bifida. Folic acid and folate are often included in prenatal vitamins.
Consider taking a prenatal vitamin in advance of pregnancy. They can offer additional support.
If you do think your pregnant and receive a positive pregnancy test, make sure to set up your 1st prenatal visit with your OB/GYN around 8 weeks gestation.
Also, be sure to download our pregnancy handbook that answers frequently asked questions and provides detailed information for each trimester. We’ll be with you every step of the way on your journey to motherhood!
