Tips to Prepare for Pregnancy
Tags: alcohol, drugs and medication, folic acid, getting fit, immunity, Nutrition, preparing your body for pregnancy, smoking, stress, weight
Helping to prepare your body so it is fighting fit to cope with the changes it will go through during pregnancy will give you a smoother time and a quicker recovery, it will also help you to carry a healthy baby. Follow our ten top tips to make sure that you are ready:
Tip 1: Weight
When you are trying to get pregnant you must consider your weight as it can play an important part in your fertility. You should look to correct your weight if you are outside of your ideal weight bracket, as this will increase your probability of conceiving and offer you a greater chance of a healthy pregnancy.
Do not try to lose weight during pregnancy.
Tip 2: Drugs & Medication
Stop taking all unnecesary drugs! Consult your doctor about any prescribed drugs or medication you may be taking, or any that you may want to continue taking. Your doctor will be able to advise you what is safe and what may harm your fertiliy or foetus.
Tip 3: Alcohol
It is best to avoid drinking alcohol, or at least limit your weekly consumpion, whilst trying to conceive and during your pregnancy. Drinking alcohol can effect your fertility, this is the case in both men and women. Remember alcohol can harm the foetus prior to you confirming you are pregnant.
During pregnancy no more than one or two units once or twice a week is recommended.
Tip 4: Nutrition
Good nutrition is vital for good fertility and a healthy pregnancy. Eat a balanced diet and cut-out or reduce your consumption of processed foods that are high in sugar and fat and low in vitamins and minerals. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration.
See our Pregnancy Recipes Section for a couple of healthy, easy to make recipes
Tip 5: Folic Acid
Take folic acid supplements as soon as you start trying for a baby. The normal amount is 400mcg per day; these tablets can be purchased at most pharmacies or supermarkets. If you suffer from epilepsy you should consult your doctor as you may require a higher dose.
Research has shown that women who take a daily folic acid supplement during conception and the first 12 weeks of pregnancy reduce the risk of their baby being born with a serious neural-tube defect by upto 70%.
Tip 6: Getting Fit
If you are planning for a baby it is a great idea to get yourself fit. Getting fit will help you to have a healthier pregnancy, have more energy, cope with your changing body shape and give you more stamina during labour.
Tip 7: Smoking
Both mum and dad - Stop Smoking! Research has shown that smoking can reduce fertility in both men and women. Smoking in pregnancy gives a higher chance of miscarriage.
You will be giving your baby the best start in life by stopping smoking.
Tip 8: Immunity
Ensure you are immunised against Rubella; your doctor will be able to advise you on how to get this checked. If you are not immune arrange to get a vaccine, even though this is a rare disease, if you are infected with Rubella whilst pregnant you could miscarry or your baby could end up with birth defects or have development problems.
Tip 9: Stress & Environment
Try and limit stress whilst trying for a baby and during pregnancy. Yoga can help you to relax, get fit and learn about breathing techniques.
Risk assess your work and home environments; are there any hazards that may be unsafe to you, or anything that may cause you problems or unnecessary stress during your pregnancy.
Tip 10: Visit Your Doctor
Arrange a check-up with your doctor, they will be able to talk to you about your menstrual cycle and help you to understand your fertility. Your doctor will be able to advise you about coming off contraception, your immunity and generally looking after yourself.
