Nothing compares with the miracle and magic that occurs while you are pregnant. It is your chance to be involved in life's creative process. Planning ahead for this experience can improve your chances of doing well yourself and of having a healthy baby.
You can have an effect on one of the most important factors in your baby's health: your lifestyle. By planning ahead, you can be certain you and your baby are exposed to good things and not exposed to harmful things during your pregnancy.
By the time most women realize they are pregnant, they are 1 to 2 months into their pregnancy. By the time they see their doctor, they are 2 or 3 months along. The first 12 weeks of pregnancy are extremely important because this is when the baby forms its major organ systems. Many important things can happen before you realize you are pregnant or before you see your doctor. Getting in shape before pregnancy means physical and mental preparation.
It is usually not a bad idea to see your doctor about planning your pregnancy. Your doctor may suggest some laboratory tests, STD screenings, and/or lifestyle changes prior to conception. The following is a basic list of things you'll want to consider before becoming pregnant:
Weight reduction: Are you the weight you want to be when you get pregnant? Do you exercise regularly?
Immunizations: Do you need any vaccinations, such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)?
Infections: Have you had exposure to, or need screening for, Hepatitis, Toxoplasmosis, or HIV?
Genetic testing: Do you have a family history of, or would you like to be screened for, Cystic Fibrosis, Tay Sachs, or Hemoglobinopathies?
Labs: Do you want to have your thyroid level checked prior to conceiving? Are you anemic? Are you prone to bladder infections?
Drugs, Alcohol, & Smoking: Should you stop smoking before becoming pregnant rather than trying to stop during pregnancy? How much alcohol do you consume? Do you use drugs?
Occupational Exposure: Are there substances in your everyday or work environment that you should avoid?
Medicines: If you are on prescription medications you may want to review them with your doctor to ensure that they are appropriate medicines to take while pregnant. Your doctor may modify your prescriptions or even discontinue some medications.
Folic Acid: Folic acid is an important component for a developing baby. Most women will take 0.4mg (400 micrograms) daily. If you've had an infant with spina bifida you should take 4mg daily. Prenatal vitamins are also an excellent source of many of the nutrients your baby will need.
