Things You Should Know Before Getting Pregnant
It’s an exciting time in your life! You and your significant other have decided to expand your family. For a healthy pregnancy and baby, there are a few things you should do before you try to get pregnant.
Know Your Family Health History
You and your partner should find out about your family health history. Your doctor will ask you these types of questions so it is good to know them in advance.
Schedule an appointment with your Doctor
Once you decide you would like to try for a baby, set up an appointment with your doctor for a preconception checkup.
Fuel Up on Folic Acid
Ask your doctor to recommend a good prenatal vitamin. Even if you do eat a balanced diet, it’s difficult to get all the nutrients you need from food alone. Folic acid is important to take before you start trying for a baby and during your first trimester. Taking folic acid every day will dramatically decrease your chances of having a baby with neural-tube defects.
Stop Partying
If you are a smoker, use drugs or drink alcohol… now is the time to stop. Studies show that smoking or taking drugs can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or low birth weight. Tobacco can also affect your fertility and lower your partner’s sperm count. Alcohol can get in the way of getting pregnant as well. Drinking during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol syndrome and lead to many birth defects, including mental problems.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Studies show that if you are a healthy weight, you will probably have an easier time getting pregnant. If you are not in a healthy range, losing or gaining weight now may increase your chances to conceive. Talk to your doctor about the best way to achieve these goals.
Budget
Think about the cost of having a baby and plan ahead.
Whoop It Up
Before you get pregnant, you and your partner should take that vacation you keep talking about. Soak in the hot tub, have a sushi dinner- embrace a little adventure while you can. Take advantage of whooping it up and being spontaneous. Once you conceive, there are A LOT of changes to be made, with a whole new adventure ahead of you!
