Preparing For Pregnancy
When planning a pregnancy, preparation is critical. With the right questions, couples can ensure a smooth pregnancy and healthy baby. Before attempting to conceive, consider asking about proper nutrition, prenatal vitamins and supplements, medication safety, and what to expect during early pregnancy. When making a baby, knowledge is power.
What should I be eating?
A healthy, well-rounded diet is essential when trying to conceive. Focus on getting plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and enough protein. When selecting carbohydrates, unprocessed whole grains are the best bet. Steer clear of processed foods with added sugar. Refrain from drinking alcohol when pregnancy is a possibility. A Mediterranean diet has been shown to boost fertility, along with foods high in omega 3s, vitamin B12, and folic acid. Remember that moderation is key, and small healthy choices can add up to make a big difference.
What prenatal vitamin should I take?
Nowadays, the market is saturated with prenatal vitamins, and selecting the right option can feel overwhelming. Start by looking at the ingredient list. Folic acid, which has been shown to decrease the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs), is a must when trying to conceive. For all other vitamins, amounts should be close to 100% of the daily needs for pregnancy. A label showing that a vitamin or mineral is contained at 500% of the daily value can be a red flag, as high doses are often poorly studied. Watch out for added herbals, which are also not well studied and may negatively impact a pregnancy. In most cases, additional supplements are unnecessary unless a woman is deficient. Consistency is key, so remembering to take the pill every day is important.
Are my current medications safe?
Approximately 70% of pregnant people take prescription medication. Whether a woman is treating depression, allergies, high blood pressure (BP), acne, anxiety, an autoimmune disease, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), understanding the pregnancy safety profile is essential. The best time to ask about medications is before pregnancy. Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to review all current medications. If a drug is identified to be a concern and could pose a risk to a future pregnancy, a change may be warranted. In other cases, the benefit of treating the underlying condition with medication may outweigh any potential risks or unknowns.
What happens after a positive pregnancy test?
Preparing for early pregnancy before conception can make the process much easier. Read up on common symptoms to know what is expected and what requires further medical assessment. Prepare for the possibility of morning sickness, which affects as many as 80% of pregnant women. Make sure to keep track of the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP) so the first prenatal visit can be scheduled appropriately. Remember that most doctors won’t want to see pregnant women until 7-8 weeks at the earliest. In the meantime, be wary of information found online. Always look for answers on trusted websites and contact a provider for further help if needed.
Family planning 101
Once a couple is ready to have a baby, health matters. Focus on a well-rounded diet free of alcohol and a daily prenatal vitamin that contains the right amount of each vitamin and mineral. Only continue with medications that are known to be safe during pregnancy. Research what to expect during early pregnancy to be as prepared as possible once the pregnancy test turns positive. With a bit of preparation, women can feel empowered to have a happy and healthy pregnancy.