Many women know that changing their lifestyle or seeing a doctor is important when trying to conceive. But in reality, there’s more to it than just making changes. You must also look into other factors such as age, ovulation, infertility problems, etc. Fortunately, even if things seem out of hand, there are steps you can take to make the process easier.
Consider these to-do lists on your top priorities at least three months before trying to get pregnant.
1. Visit Your Doctor
Since it takes two to tango, you and your partner should visit your doctor for a health check-up even if you feel you’re healthy. Your doctor can discuss issues that could affect your pregnancy, including fertility treatment if it’s needed. Your appointment could also include discussing your medical history, any existing medical conditions, your lifestyle, and so on.
Moreover, they are your go-to people who ensure that you complete the required immunizations. The most recommended vaccines are flu, MMR (measles, rubella, and mumps), ZVZ (varicella-zoster virus), and HPV (human papillomavirus). Others depend on the woman’s current health condition.
2. Keep a Healthy Weight
Numerous studies have found ab association between obesity and an increased chance of miscarriage. Many are aware that a healthy weight is a key to conception, and being overweight or underweight can impact fertility. Though many overweight and underweight women find no problems getting pregnant, ovulation problems may occur.
3. Stop Alcohol, Smoking, Drugs, and Limit Caffeine Intake
Female smokers have a lower success rate in conceiving than non-smokers. It was observed that the infertility rates of male and female smokers are twice that of non-smokers. And the more you smoke every day, your infertility risks also increase.
Furthermore, Alcohol and other drugs that your doctor does not prescribe can make it harder for you to conceive. Plus, they increase the chances of miscarriage and a higher chance of having a baby with low birth rates. Meanwhile, lowering your caffeine intake may help reduce the risk of miscarriage while increasing the chances of having a healthy baby.
4. Preconception Health and Fertility Issues Awareness
Fertility awareness allows a woman to understand her chances of conceiving. Preconception care education helps increase awareness of women about the benefits and risks of certain behaviors that could affect their health before, during, and after pregnancy. As she improves these behaviors before she conceives, she will reduce the risks for her and her baby’s health.
While almost all information can be found online, ensuring that the source is reliable is crucial. If you want to take your conception journey to the next level, consider looking for credible and reliable courses on fertility treatments.
5. Increase Your Nutrients and Take Vitamins and Folic Acid
Eating a balanced diet can help your reproductive system function normally. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in your diet. The American Pregnancy Association recommends that you consume more calcium and folic acids to prevent birth defects.
Since you need to consume 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, eating more citrus, dark leafy greens, legumes, and fortified bread and cereal is always the key. However, most women are advised by their doctors to take supplements. You can consume more calcium-rich foods like yogurt, low-fat milk, and dark leafy greens for your calcium intake.
6. Exercise, Rest and Relax
Exercise can help you deal with the changes your body will experience during pregnancy and labor. Some women can even safely continue their exercise regimen throughout their pregnancy. If you are one of them, it’s best to talk to your doctor about it.
You can try a 30-minute exercise program five days a week if you aren’t currently exercising. It could include walking or biking for 30 minutes. Studies show that moderate exercise such as walking, biking, and golfing can shorten the conception period. On top of these, it’s essential to reduce stress, relax more, and rest well.
Key Takeaways
Your body is unique, and you know it better than anyone else. However, your doctor is your friend who can help you with the process if you want to get pregnant. They’re one of the right people to ask any questions you might have since no woman is the same. Along with this, you can get help from reliable courses about preconception care online.
Remember that even if preconception health and fertility awareness may sometimes sound overwhelming, it will help you understand your body more.
