Trying for a baby? Wait for a month or two and get in the best preconception shape for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. From visiting the doctor to popping those vitamin pills, know 5 ways to start preparing for pregnancy.
1. Go for a preconception check-up
Before getting pregnant, it is best to consult your practitioner for ensuring that you are healthy enough to carry a new life inside you. During your pre-pregnancy appointment, a host of tests and examinations like Pap smear test, STD and other screening tests, blood test, thyroid test and test for AIDS will be done along with weight check, breast and abdominal examination. If you have any doubts regarding ovulation or anything in relation to your health, you can get it cleared. The prenatal check-up also helps to understand your medical history, and weans you off any medications that you no longer need.
2. Have folic acid tablets
Having folic acid pills will bring down the chances of some crucial birth defects like spina bifida. Taking 400 mcg of folic acid daily is generally recommended by doctors for at least one month before you conceive and during your first trimester. It would be better to get folic acid tablets according to your practitioner’s advice. Vitamin A is also essential for the body before getting pregnant. So, if you are taking a multivitamin, ensure that you check the label of content before having the pills. Too much quantity of vitamin A may be harmful for you.
3. Give up unhealthy habits
Now is the good time to stop unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking and consuming drugs. It can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, and low-birth weight babies. Alcohol consumption can also result in a host of problems including major birth defects. If you find it difficult to stop an unhealthy habit, talk to your doctor for some aid.
4. Follow a healthy diet
Remember, when you get pregnant, your baby is also taking in nutrients from your body. So, stock up your body with the nutrients you need for a healthy pregnancy. From organic fruits to fresh vegetables, whole grain foods to calcium foods like milk and yogurt, along with nuts and meats, you have to eat all nutritious foods even before getting pregnant.
5. Move your body
You need to have a healthy body before pregnancy. So, the best way for it is to stick to a fitness plan. Around 30 minutes or more of moderate exercise, such as walking or cycling or swimming can help you maintain your fitness. Apart from fitness, it can also help to relieve the stress that can trouble you when you are getting ready for motherhood.
Following these simple tips will always help you prepare physically and mentally before welcoming a new person in your family.