Pre-conception advice for when you're ready to start TTC

18 March 2024

Elysha Anderson

What Do I Need to Do Before I Get Pregnant?

Planning for a baby is an exciting journey, filled with anticipation and joy. However, it’s also a time that requires considerable preparation.

Ensuring you are physically, emotionally, and financially ready for pregnancy can improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Here are some key steps to consider before getting pregnant.

Schedule a Preconception Check-up

Before trying to conceive, schedule a preconception check-up with your doctor. This visit allows you to discuss any existing health conditions, medications, and lifestyle habits that may affect your pregnancy.

Your doctor can also provide guidance on what you can do to optimise your health before pregnancy.

Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins

It’s recommended to start taking prenatal vitamins at least three months before conception.

Folate, a B vitamin found in prenatal supplements, is essential for preventing neural tube defects in the early stages of pregnancy.

Other essential nutrients include iron, calcium, and vitamin D.

Read our blog on what supplements to take to help fertility here.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being underweight or overweight can impact fertility and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.

Strive for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.

Read our blog on how weight affects fertility here.

Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake

Both smoking and alcohol can negatively impact fertility and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy. It’s advisable to quit smoking and limit alcohol intake when planning for pregnancy.

Read our blog on how smoking affects fertility here.

Review Your Family’s Medical History

Knowing your family’s medical history can help your healthcare provider assess potential genetic risks. If there’s a history of genetic disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, or certain chronic illnesses, you may be referred for genetic counselling, or you may need PGT-M.

Evaluate Your Mental Health

Pregnancy can bring about significant emotional changes, so it’s crucial to assess and manage your mental health before conceiving. If you have a history of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, discuss this with your doctor.

Check Your Vaccination Status

Certain infections can harm both mother and baby during pregnancy. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date, particularly for diseases like rubella and chickenpox, which can cause serious complications if contracted during pregnancy.

Limit Caffeine Consumption

While moderate caffeine intake is generally considered safe, excessive amounts can increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth. It’s advisable to limit your caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day, equivalent to about one 12-ounce cup of coffee.

Understand Your Menstrual Cycle

Understanding your menstrual cycle can help you identify your most fertile days, increasing your chances of conception. You can track your cycle using various methods, such as monitoring basal body temperature, observing changes in cervical mucus, or using ovulation predictor kits.

Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised guidance, please consult with a doctor.