If you're hoping to get pregnant, your chances of a successful pregnancy and healthy baby depend on your choices. Even before you conceive, you can prepare your body to create a safe and nurturing environment for your growing baby. Before you start trying, physicians recommend you take these steps.

What Does Your Physician Want You to Do Before Pregnancy?

1. Stop Unhealthy Habits

If you smoke or consume alcohol, there is an increased risk that your child could have birth defects. You must quit during your pregnancy, and it's even better to quit beforehand. You'll also need to stop or severely limit your caffeine intake from coffee, tea, and soda. You’ll also have to stop taking some prescription medications, so ask your doctor to review these.

2. Prioritize Nutrition

If you aren't already eating a varied diet of fresh foods — including vegetables, lean meat, and whole grains — now is the time to start. These nutrients are irreplaceable for you and the baby. To supplement your vitamins and minerals, take a prenatal vitamin. These formulas are designed specifically for pregnancy, and they have a higher concentration of folic acid and iron to prevent spinal defects and anemia.

3. Exercise

During pregnancy, your body has to work harder. Your blood volume grows by about 50%, meaning your heart must work harder. You’re also carrying around extra weight, so you need to be stronger. Regular exercise improves heart health and body strength. Additionally, if you establish an exercise routine now, it will be easier to keep it up during pregnancy, helping you to relieve stress, making you sleep better, and keeping you in generally good shape to make childbirth easier.

For a consultation with a physician in Davidson County, NC, call Lexington Family Physicians, Serving the community with a family-oriented approach, they take patients of all ages and provide a wide range of services, from simple exams to gynecology. Schedule an appointment by calling (336) 249-3329, or learn more about the practice online.