Pregnancy preparation process is one of the most significant and life-changing processes in every woman’s life; thus, it is very important to prepare for it. Whether you want to conceive now, or sometime in the future, certain measures which one can take to enhance his/her health will go a long way into improving the chances of conception and also the health of the baby once pregnant. At Diva Women’s Hospital Ahmedabad, We know that the journey to pregnancy may begin with preconception care; therefore, we avail prenatal guidance to the patients.
1. Schedule a Pre-Pregnancy Consultation
It is recommended that a preconception visit to a health care provider should be made to enhance a healthy pregnancy. For a basic checkup, your doctor will then tell you your entire history, general healthcare condition, and previous illnesses, if any. It is your chance to discuss with your doctor any worries you have and obtain advice appropriate for your situation and preparing for pregnancy.
2. Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Taking prenatal vitamins is crucial to the improvement of the health of women who are pregnant. These are folic acid, iron, calcium, and Vitamin D which play a big role in the development of your baby. It is recommended that you should begin to take prenatal vitamins one month prior to the intended act of conception. Of all the B vitamins, folic acid for instance, markedly helps to address neural tube deficiencies in new-born babies.
3. Adopt a Healthy Diet
It is therefore mandatory that you keep to a balanced diet and ensure that you feed on healthy foods to boost both your health as well as your unborn baby. The nutrition guidelines of mantener should highlight the inclusion of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, lean meat, and healthy fat sources in the meals. Avoid consumption of foods that have undergone serious processing, foods which contain much sugar, and products that contain caffeine. Eating properly ensures that the mother regains her proper weight, minimises the factors that cause the development of gestational diabetes, and feeds the unborn baby with appropriate nutrients.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Since obesity is a critical risk factor to complications during pregnancy, it is recommended that women should maintain their weight at the optimal level before conception. If you are a postmenopausal woman, or you’re a bit overweight or underweight, then it is advisable to discuss with your doctor how to achieve the right weight. Prenatal exercise also includes moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga to enhance one’s health to prepare for pregnancy.
5. Manage Chronic Conditions
If you have chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, or asthma, it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively before conceiving. Proper management can help optimise your health and minimise potential risks during pregnancy.
6. Screen for Infections
There are some infections which may be dangerous for pregnant women and the future baby’s health. One should attend a screening for all STIs, UTI, and other infections that may affect fertility and pregnancy. If infections are identified then there is possibility of early treatment to minimise the risks depriving you of a healthy pregnancy.
7. Evaluate Medications
It is advised that women planning on getting pregnant should discuss any medication they are taking with their doctor, including prescription drugs, over the counter medications, and supplements. This implies that certain medications may have to be reviewed or even stopped in order to prescribe them in pregnancy. A physician can advise on medication and other meaningful approaches if any change is needed.
8. So for the time being it is best to quit smoking and avoid alcohol
Some of the factors that may compromise fertility as well as the outcomes of a pregnancy include smoking and alcohol consumption. Thus quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol in particular before and during pregnancy are some of the measures that are recommended for women in order to have a healthy pregnancy. If you require help to stop smoking or cut down on alcohol, consult your doctor or get help from the programmes which exist to help with cessation.
9. Assess Genetic Risks
Genetic counselling and testing could be suggested if either of you or your partner has a genetic disease or birth abnormalities in your families. A genetic screening will assist you to determine factors that are likely to arise in future and the kind of decision to make concerning early marriage and pregnancy. Your doctor can explain to you about the opportunities of genetic testing and the recommendations connected with this matter based on the data about your family.
10. Reduce Stress
Managing stress levels is important for overall well-being and fertility. High levels of stress can impact hormone levels and menstrual cycles, potentially affecting fertility and conception. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies and activities that promote relaxation and positive emotions.
Preparing for pregnancy involves a combination of physical, emotional, and lifestyle considerations to optimise your health and well-being. By following this pre-pregnancy checklist and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals at Diva Women’s Hospital Ahmedabad, you can take proactive steps towards achieving a healthy and successful pregnancy journey. Our dedicated team is here to provide personalised preconception care, support, and resources to help you prepare for this transformative experience.
For more information or to schedule a pre-pregnancy consultation, contact Diva Women’s Hospital Ahmedabad today. Let us be your partner in achieving a healthy and fulfilling pregnancy.