7 Steps to Take If You’re Planning to Become Pregnant
The importance of pregnancy care for an expectant mother is well understood, but there are also actions that can be taken to prepare for conception and pregnancy. Thameside ObGyn Centre in Groton, CT, offers up these seven steps to take before becoming pregnant.
1. See a Doctor
As soon as you’re ready to start planning a pregnancy, schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN. Your doctor can determine what specific actions you’ll need to take to ensure conception, as well as explain what to expect for pregnancy care once you do become pregnant.
2. Clean Up Your Diet
In the months leading up to conception, you may want to begin taking a multivitamin containing folic acid, iron, and calcium, which are all beneficial during pregnancy. Speak to your doctor about which over-the-counter and prescription medications should be eliminated, if any. If you smoke, stop immediately, and consider the reduction or elimination of caffeine and alcoholic beverages.
3. Make a Plan
Your OB/GYN can help identify the dates you’ll have the best chance of conception. Once you know these dates, you and your partner can then schedule time to be together.
4. Set a Goal Weight
A healthy weight will contribute to a greater chance of conception, so adjust your diet and exercise to maintain the goal weight advised by your doctor.
5. Exercise
If you don’t already, exercising regularly will help your body prepare for pregnancy and increase your chances of conception.
6. Know Your Options
If you have trouble conceiving, you may need fertility treatments. Speak to a women’s health center about options for overcoming infertility.
7. Reduce Stress
There can be a lot of stress associated with conception, pregnancy, and infertility. Finding a way to reduce worry and anxiety, such as listening to guided meditation or attending a support group, can help make your journey to motherhood more relaxing.
Thameside ObGyn Centre provides patients with professional and compassionate health care for every stage of a woman’s life, including pregnancy care, OB/GYN services, and infertility advice. If you’re ready to start trying to become pregnant, schedule an appointment with them by calling (860) 445-5107 or visiting their website.