Before pregnancy, there are several measures that can help maintain the health of the mother and baby and increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
These measures include physical, mental and medical preparation, which are discussed here:
1. Consultation with a doctor
Before trying to get pregnant, it is better to consult a doctor or gynecologist. Your doctor can give you the necessary advice based on your health condition.
During this session, the doctor may check the following:
• General state of body health
• Medical and family history
• Taking medicines and supplements
• Preliminary tests and examinations (including blood tests, blood pressure, examination of the state of the uterus and ovaries)
2. Getting vitamins and supplements
One of the most important measures before pregnancy is taking folic acid.
This vitamin helps prevent neural tube defects in the fetus and should be started at least 3 months before pregnancy.
Your doctor may also prescribe other vitamins and supplements depending on your body’s needs, such as:
• Folic acid: 400 micrograms per day for 3 months before pregnancy
• Iron: to prevent anemia during pregnancy
• Vitamin D: to support bones and immune system
3. Adjust the weight
Body weight plays an important role in a healthy pregnancy. Women with the right weight (not too low and not too much) have a better chance of having a healthy pregnancy.
If you are overweight or underweight, it is best to reach a healthy weight before pregnancy.
Weight loss or weight gain should be done in consultation with a doctor and under the supervision of a nutritionist.
4. Quit unhealthy habits
It is very important to give up some unhealthy habits before pregnancy:
Quit smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can cause risks to pregnancy and fetal development. It is better to stop these habits at least 3 months before pregnancy.
• Reduce caffeine consumption: high caffeine consumption may harm pregnancy and the health of the fetus, so it is better to limit its consumption.
• Stop taking unnecessary drugs: Some drugs may have a negative effect on pregnancy. Be sure to consult your doctor about the medications you are taking.
5. Conducting medical tests and vaccinations
Before pregnancy, some medical tests can be helpful, including:
• Blood test: to check the status of iron deficiency, infectious diseases (such as hepatitis, HIV and syphilis) and other chronic diseases.
• Check thyroid status: thyroid problems can affect pregnancy.
• Vaccinations: Making sure you get essential vaccines like measles, rubella, and pertussis can help prevent risks to you and your unborn baby.
6. Stress management
Stress can affect the ability to conceive and affect the mother’s health. Use stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, gentle exercise, and talking to loved ones.
7. healthy diet
A balanced and nutritious diet can have a great impact on a healthy pregnancy. Pay attention to your diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, quality proteins and healthy fats.
Consuming foods rich in calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids is essential for your and your baby’s health.
8. Review of medical problems
If you have chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal disorders, or heart and kidney problems,
consult your doctor before becoming pregnant so that these problems can be controlled and you can have a safer pregnancy.
9. Financial and psychological planning
Before pregnancy, financial and psychological planning for the arrival of a child is important. The costs of pregnancy, childbirth, and infant care must be considered.
Also, psychological and emotional support from family and spouse is necessary for mother and father during pregnancy and after.
10. Knowing when to ovulate
Knowing when you ovulate can help increase your chances of pregnancy. You can use ovulation calendars, ovulation prediction kits,
or natural methods like taking your body temperature to predict when you’re fertile.
11. Genetic counseling (if necessary)
Genetic counseling may be recommended if there is a family history of certain genetic diseases or if you or your partner have suspected genetic diseases.
This consultation can help you learn more about genetic risks and ways to reduce them.
summary
Preparing for pregnancy is a complex process that includes medical, physical and psychological measures.
By following the mentioned tips, you can increase the chances of having a healthy and comfortable pregnancy and help your body to be ready to accept the changes during pregnancy.
Consulting with a doctor and checking your individual conditions is also very necessary for success in this path.
12. Checking the health of the teeth
Oral health is very important before pregnancy. Gum diseases and dental problems can lead to serious risks for mother and baby.
To prevent dental problems, it is recommended that you do a complete dental checkup before pregnancy and get the necessary treatments if needed.
Maintaining oral and dental hygiene during pregnancy is also very important, because dental problems may worsen during pregnancy.
13. Ensuring sexual health
Before trying to get pregnant, it is very important to check the state of sexual health. Some diseases, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs),
can affect pregnancy and pose serious risks to both mother and baby.
Therefore, if you have a history of sexually transmitted diseases, it is necessary to see a doctor and perform relevant tests.
This can help prevent the transmission of diseases to the fetus and improve your sexual health and fertility.
14. Prevent infectious diseases
Some infectious diseases such as measles, chicken pox, and severe colds can negatively affect pregnancy.
To prevent these diseases, it is best to get the required vaccinations before pregnancy and avoid contact with people who may have these diseases.
Also, observing hygiene tips such as washing hands and wearing a mask in crowded environments can help reduce the risk of contracting diseases.
15. Follow up on mental health
Mental health before pregnancy plays an important role in having a healthy and stress-free pregnancy.
If you feel anxious, depressed or stressed, it is better to talk to a counselor or psychologist before pregnancy.
Reducing stress and maintaining a healthy mental state helps the mother to go through pregnancy better and more easily.
16. Planning for pregnancy care
Before you get pregnant, it’s best to gather the necessary information about prenatal care.
This information can include the type of necessary tests and examinations, number of visits to the doctor, physical and psychological changes during pregnancy, and planning for delivery.
Also, knowing the possible risks and warning signs during pregnancy can help you to go to the doctor immediately in case of problems.
17. Adjusting professional and personal life
If you have a job or personal responsibilities, it is better to plan before pregnancy to prepare for pregnancy and after.
You may need to adjust your work hours, take medical leave, or make lifestyle changes.
Considering these issues before pregnancy can reduce unnecessary stress during pregnancy and prepare you to accept big changes.
18. Creating a healthy environment
Before pregnancy, check your living and work environment. Make sure you have a healthy and safe environment for pregnancy and child care.
For example, the home should be hygienic and safe and kept away from chemicals or potential hazards. There should also be enough space to keep the baby and the comfort of the mother.
19. Get nutrition advice
A nutritionist can help you plan a healthy and balanced diet for pregnancy.
If you need to lose or gain weight or suffer from digestive or nutritional problems, nutrition counseling can help you improve your eating habits and prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.
20. Knowledge of ovulation status
To increase the chances of pregnancy, it is better to be aware of your ovulation periods.
You can use an ovulation calendar, ovulation predictor tests, and physical symptoms (such as changes in body temperature or vaginal discharge) to determine when you’re fertile.
This information will help you to get pregnant at the right time.
Final summary
Preparing for pregnancy is a multi-step process that must be done carefully.
This process includes medical, psychological, nutritional and physical care that together can help to have a healthy and safe pregnancy.
From conducting medical tests to nutrition counseling, from giving up unhealthy habits to psychological support, all these steps will help you prepare the best conditions for pregnancy.
However, it’s always best to consult your doctor before trying to conceive to help you make the best decisions for your health and that of your baby based on your specific circumstances.
21. Managing sleep problems
Adequate and quality sleep before pregnancy is very important. Lack of sleep can affect physical and mental health and may disrupt the pregnancy process.
If you have sleep problems, look for ways to improve your sleep before pregnancy,
such as adjusting your bedtime, using a quiet sleeping environment without too much light, and cutting back on caffeine in the evening.
22. Knowledge of important medical dates
If you have a history of certain diseases or health problems (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease,
thyroid problems, or autoimmune diseases), it is important to consult your doctor before becoming pregnant.
You may need to be more closely monitored for diseases during pregnancy or receive special treatment. Follow medical advice carefully to ensure the health and safety of you and your baby.
23. Preparation for hormonal changes
During pregnancy, many hormonal changes occur in the body that can affect mood, energy, and even physical health.
Before pregnancy, being aware of these changes can help you better prepare for them.
Especially if you have a history of hormonal disorders, it is necessary to see a doctor to adjust hormonal treatments and prevent possible problems.
24. Exercise and physical fitness
Regular and appropriate exercise before pregnancy can help strengthen the cardiovascular system, abdominal and back muscles, and increase body endurance.
Having a body ready for pregnancy is not only useful during pregnancy, but it will also help facilitate the delivery process and reduce postpartum problems.
Exercises such as walking, swimming, yoga and light sports are recommended. However, if you do not exercise, gradually start your physical activity with the advice of your doctor.
25. Attention to the mental state of the spouse
Becoming a father also brings many changes for men. For this reason, it is necessary to pay attention to the mental state of the wife and prepare her for new responsibilities.
Spouses must be emotionally and psychologically prepared to accept their new role.
Discussion and counseling in this field can be very useful for creating mutual support and reducing possible stress.
26. Check environmental conditions
Your living environment can affect your pregnancy health. Air pollution, hazardous chemicals, cigarette smoke, or even environmental stressors can affect your ability to conceive.
Therefore, trying to live in a healthy and safe environment before pregnancy is recommended. Also, stay away from household and industrial chemicals that may be harmful.
27. Awareness of possible dangers and warning signs
Before pregnancy, you should be aware of the warning signs that may occur during pregnancy.
These symptoms can include abnormal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, decreased fetal movements (in case of subsequent pregnancies), or signs of infectious diseases.
Recognizing these symptoms will allow you to see a doctor immediately if a problem occurs and prevent serious complications.
28. Planning for postpartum care
Although the pre-pregnancy phase focuses mainly on physical and mental preparation for pregnancy, you should also think about postpartum care.
Among the issues that should be considered:
• Examining how to care for the baby and planning for breastfeeding.
• Support from family and friends to help the mother during the postpartum period.
• Deciding on birth control methods after delivery and planning for the number of children.
29. Information about childbirth and the period after it
Knowing about the birth process and how to spend the postpartum period will help you prepare for these big changes.
Books, online courses, or classes that help you understand the stages of childbirth, breastfeeding,
and caring for your baby can provide useful information for making informed decisions and reducing anxiety.
30. Attention to social and legal welfare
In some countries, rights such as maternity leave, financial support, and access to health care during and after pregnancy are important.
Before pregnancy, knowing your rights, especially in the workplace and medical facilities, can help reduce stress and ensure that you and your baby will receive the support you need.
Final conclusion
Preparing for pregnancy is a comprehensive process that requires attention to physical, mental, social and even environmental health.
By taking preventative measures and proper preparation, you can increase your chances of having a healthy and comfortable pregnancy.
Consultation with a doctor, healthy eating, regular exercise, stress management and prevention of health problems are all important steps to achieve a successful and healthy pregnancy.