Pregnancy is a nine-month process, but the preparation starts much earlier. Your body will go through a great deal of change, so it’s important to get it in the best possible shape. There’s a lot of research to do. You need to determine if you have any possible health risks to being pregnant, figure out when to start taking prenatal vitamins, and make sure you’re eating well and cutting out risky behaviors. Here are a few things to consider as you start to plan for a healthy pregnancy process.
Schedule a Preconception Doctor Appointment
A pre-pregnancy doctor visit will give you important information you’ll need before you begin trying to conceive. The doctor will let you know if you’re healthy enough to become pregnant and if there are any red flags. There will also be blood tests to find out if you have any genetic disorders. If you do, you might have some possible risks due to family history. If there are significant issues, the doctor could refer you to a genetic specialist for further counseling.
It’s also vital you are up to date with your immunizations. Some of these include the flu vaccine, HPV, MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), and chicken pox. If you’ve been vaccinated for them before, they will check to see if you need a booster shot. Let the doctor know if you have had any previous allergic reactions to vaccines or medications.
Determine When to Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins contain important nutrients the body needs for a healthy pregnancy, including folic acid. Folic acid is vital in the production of red blood cells and the development of the baby. Other important nutrients in prenatal vitamins are iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and choline. But the question is when to start taking prenatal vitamins. Most agree that at least 12 weeks before conception is the right amount of time. If you know the approximate date you plan to begin trying to conceive, make sure you’re prepared so you know when to start taking prenatal vitamins.
Make Sure You’re Eating a Healthy Diet
Determining when to start taking prenatal vitamins isn’t the only way to get your body the right nutrients it will use while pregnant, eating a balanced diet will also help. Leafy green vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, fruits, healthy fats, and low-carb foods are all great for someone who is expecting or hoping to become pregnant. If possible, eat organic foods as well. It’s also important to stay hydrated, so drinking lots of water or tea is helpful.
Some foods are not recommended during pregnancy, so steer clear of undercooked meat, raw eggs, soft cheeses, deli meat, or unpasteurized milk. Tuna fish is also one to avoid because it can contain metals like mercury and cadmium.
Cut Out Any Harmful Habits
Smoking while pregnant can lead to difficulties in pregnancies. Drugs and alcohol can be harmful as well. Caffeine doesn’t need to be eliminated from your diet, but it’s good to keep an eye on how much you’re having.
Getting Exercise is Helpful
Having an exercise program is key for getting your body into shape for pregnancy. Whether it’s walking, running, swimming, or yoga, it’s a great way to maintain your optimal weight. Being either underweight or overweight can be problematic for someone who is pregnant. You want to be feeling your best when you start pregnancy because you know there will be stress on your body.
Know When to Stop Your Birth Control
If you’ve been on birth control for a while, it can take longer for some people to become pregnant once they’ve stopped. For others, it can happen right away. Just make sure you’re ready and know that once you stop taking birth control, pregnancy can occur quickly.
Are You a Thrill Seeker? Get Your Fun in Now
If you are someone who likes adventure or activities with a little danger involved, it’s probably best to get it out of your system before you become pregnant. There is a reason theme parks post signs by their roller coasters to warn against the dangers of riding while expecting. It can be harmful to the growing baby to be put under the stresses of a roller coaster ride. Skydiving is another activity that shouldn’t be done while pregnant. It can be thrilling, but not worth the risk.
Getting Your Body Right
There are many things to think about when preparing to go through pregnancy, like seeing a doctor, knowing when to start taking prenatal vitamins, eating healthy, exercising, and stopping activities that are bad for you. It can seem like a lot, but in the end, it’s all worth it when you become a parent and meet your child for the first time.
