Now that you have decided to take the first step into expanding your family, there are a lot of things to be done and considered. Before you actually get pregnant, you have to ‘prepare’ your body for the exciting change. Here is a checklist for you to consider:
Schedule an appointment with OB/GYN
It is never a bad idea to consult a doctor before trying for a baby. Scheduling a ‘preconception’ visit with the OB/GYN can make you well-informed about things you probably didn’t know about. The doctor can also give you advice on ovulation and help you plan your pregnancy in a better way. This is especially helpful for people who have had a difficult pregnancy in the past, suffer from health complications or are over 35 years of age, all of which pose problems in fertility.
Read up on family medical history
Before you actually think about having a baby, it is crucial to check up on family medical history to cover the risks of genetic disorders, chronic illnesses, and other fertility issues. Genetic diseases can be tested at an early age so it will be helpful if you cover the risks way in advance. Talk to your family, your partner’s family to double-check on things. If you or your family are at risk, screening can ease your fears.
Think about the budget and the expenses
Let’s face it. Bringing up babies isn’t cheap and there is also a lot of cost involved upfront when you have to schedule appointments, visits, and checkups through your pregnancy (which are frequent). There are also things to be bought for your new arrival. When you have a budget in mind and have done your planning in advance, it can help you get rid of unnecessary hassles and tensions later. Budgeting at such an early stage can also help you fully take care of your growing family, without having to cut down or delay things during the crucial time.
Take prenatal supplements
Stocking up on prenatal supplements, vitamins, and folic acid in the early days when you think about conceiving can only improve your odds of getting pregnant. Having a healthy diet, taking essential prenatal vitamins also help the body for conception, fetal implantation, and smooth pregnancy. However, it is important to consult your doctor or gynecologist before starting the dosage.
While you are at it, it is also a good time to lower down on your caffeine and alcohol consumption and start making nutritious food choices which can aid a healthy pregnancy and conceiving process.
Go to the dentist
Yes, planning a visit to the dentist is just as important as visiting an OB/GYN. Studies say that pregnant women carry a higher risk of developing gum diseases and dental problems so visiting a dentist can take care of your dental health and prevent problems in the future. Dental work is also riskier when you are pregnant and limits the prescription of certain pain relievers. Hence, going to a dentist before time can actually help prevent problems.
Start doing Kegels
Just like it is important to adopt a healthy diet before and through your pregnancy, it is just as crucial to prepare your body ‘well’ before you actually get pregnant. Kegels are an important pelvic muscles exercise which strengthens the hip bones, vaginal walls and allow for an easier and less painful delivery. You should also incorporate an exercise regime into your lifestyle which will help you later. Brisk or moderate physical activity for 30 to 45 minutes each day can help you stay fit and healthy during your pregnancy days.
Lastly…
Handling a baby is no easy job and it is something which requires a lifetime of commitment. So, before you conceive, it is important to rethink and do away with any fears you might have. You should be prepared to take on all responsibilities and risks so asking yourself and your partner questions about childcare, taking care of a special needs child (if the need arises), raising and co-parenting should be cleared away at once before leading to complications later.
