Planning For Pregnancy
Pregnancy can change a woman’s body completely which is why you should plan in advance. This way you can improve the chances of getting pregnant and have a healthier pregnancy. Preconception wellness and health include things you can do before as well as between pregnancies to improve your chances of having a healthy baby. It can take several months for some women to prepare their bodies for pregnancy. Here are a few tips from Harsh Hospital & Maternity Home for things to do before getting pregnant:
Consult Your Doctor
Consult your doctor about preconception health care before planning your pregnancy. Your gynecologist will want to go over your medical history and any current medical conditions that could interfere with a pregnancy. They may also go over the medications you are taking, the vaccination you’ll need, etc.
Make sure to discuss the following with your doctor:
- Medical Conditions: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), thyroid, high blood pressure, Diabetes, etc
- Lifestyle: If you smoke, consume alcohol, use specific drugs or live in a stressful environment
- Vaccinations: Some vaccinations are advised before becoming pregnant, during pregnancy, and immediately following delivery. Getting the right vaccinations at the right time can help you stay healthy and keep your baby from becoming seriously ill or developing life-long health problems.
Maintain A Healthy Weight
Overweight and Obese Women are at a higher risk for a variety of serious conditions, including pregnancy complications, heart problems, Diabetes Type 2, and certain forms of cancer.
Short-term dietary changes aren’t the key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. It is about living a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and healthy eating.
If you have been facing any weight issues, consult your doctor about ways to achieve and maintain a healthy weight before becoming pregnant.
Cut Down on Alcohol
If you’re pregnant or trying for a baby, avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can be passed down to your unborn child. Drinking during pregnancy can be harmful to your baby in the long run.
Give up on alcoholic drinks now because you don’t know when you’ll become pregnant. Drinking during pregnancy increases the likelihood of birth defects and learning difficulties. Alcohol can also make it more difficult to conceive.
Start Taking Folic Acid
It aids in the prevention of major birth defects which can occur before you realize you’re pregnant. This vitamin can be found in a variety of foods, including citrus fruits, green vegetables, and legumes, but most women require a supplement to get enough.
Begin by taking a daily vitamin. When planning a pregnancy, you have to have 400 mg of folic acid per day, which is the amount found in most multivitamins.
Quit Smoking
Smoking during/before pregnancy has been connected to a number of health issues, including:
- Miscarriage
- Sudden Infant Death
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Breathing difficulty in infants
Quitting can be difficult, no matter how badly you want to, but help is available. Inhaling smoke from those around you can also harm your baby. So be sure to request anyone to refrain from smoking near you.
Visit Your Dentist
If you don’t floss regularly, now is the time to start. It’s good for both your baby and your dental health. Pregnancy increases your risk of gum disease, a health issue that can also lead to premature labor.
So have your gums and teeth cleaned and checked on a regular basis, and brush, and rinse with a disinfectant mouthwash.
Focus on Your Mental Health
Mental health refers to how we think, perceive, and act in response to life’s challenges. To perform at your best, you must be happy with your life and value yourself.
Everyone experiences worry, anxiety, sadness, or stress from time to time. However, if these feelings persist and interfere with your daily life, seek professional help. Discuss your feelings and treatment options with your doctor to get a fresh perspective on your decision on pregnancy.
