Getting mentally and physically ready for pregnancy is a must. Our bodies are powerful, but might be unnecessarily strained if we don't prepare ourselves. Here are 13 things you should know for how you can best plan for pregnancy.
1. Foods to eat when trying to get pregnant
3. Smoking is a no-no
You probably know that it's not a good idea to smoke when you're pregnant, but you maybe didn't realize that the same rule applies when you're trying to get pregnant. Smoking disrupts the quality of the eggs and the sperm and lessens the chance of conceiving and birthing a healthy baby.
4. When should you start taking prenatal vitamins?
Prenatal vitamins can be taken up to three months before pregnancy. They contain the 400 micrograms of folic acid that you need to help reduce the risk of neurological birth defects, such as spina bifida.
“All of the nutrients and vitamins a pregnant woman takes in will go to the baby first,” clinical pharmacy specialist Morgan King told the Clevland Clinic. “The baby needs that nutrition to grow.”
5. Weight loss before pregnancy
Weight does matter, but when trying to get pregnant, you don't need to stress yourself out on losing weight. Arrive at a healthy weight by staying active and by eating foods that fuel your body.
However, being overweight can decrease your fertility levels. “Fat cells often produce higher estrogen levels, which can work against your body when it’s trying to ovulate,” OB-GYN Rebecca Starck told the Cleveland Clinic. And being underweight has its drawbacks as well; a BMI lower than 18.5 can also disrupt your ovulation. Having a healthy weight and BMI while trying to conceive helps maximize your chances of getting pregnant.
6. Exercise!
Involving yourself in exercise is one of the best gifts that you can give to yourself and your baby. Low-impact cardio such as walking and swimming are gentle and effective ways of increasing your heart rate. “I enrolled in prenatal yoga and swimming because I felt getting out and being active would be best for both me and my baby," Kimberlee Leonard previously told Mom.com.
7. Take stock of your overall health
Before meeting with your doctor, taking some time to review your medical conditions, your family’s medical history, and your overall lifestyle is the best first step for preparing for pregnancy, according to pregnancy planning guidelines laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
8: Know your body: What are pregnancy symptoms?
Typically, a missed period, nausea, and fatigue are at the top of the list for symptoms of being pregnant.
The American Pregnancy Association points out some other symptoms that are not commonly spoken about, such as spotting, backaches, and darkening of the areolas. In the end, listen to your body, and when you’re ready take a test — and no matter the result — celebrate the steps you've taken.
