When it comes to planning for a pregnancy, there's more to it than just waiting for a positive pregnancy test. In fact, preparing for pregnancy starts well before conception. This is where preconception care comes in.
Preconception care involves taking steps to optimize your health and wellness before becoming pregnant. By taking care of your health before pregnancy, you can improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Here are some key things to consider when it comes to preconception care:
Manage Chronic Health Conditions: If you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it's important to manage it well before becoming pregnant. Work with your healthcare provider to make sure your condition is well-controlled and that any medications you are taking are safe during pregnancy.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes before becoming pregnant can improve your overall health and increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy. This includes things like quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and getting regular exercise.
Get Your Vaccinations: Certain vaccinations, such as the flu shot and the Tdap vaccine, are recommended for women before becoming pregnant. This can help protect both you and your baby from serious illnesses.
Address Environmental Hazards: Exposure to certain environmental hazards, such as chemicals or radiation, can be harmful to a developing fetus. Consider making changes to your environment, such as avoiding harmful chemicals or changing your job if it involves exposure to toxins.
Take Prenatal Vitamins: Taking prenatal vitamins before becoming pregnant can help ensure that your body has the nutrients it needs for a healthy pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins should include folic acid, which can help prevent birth defects.
Preconception care is an important step in preparing for pregnancy. By taking care of your health before becoming pregnant, you can improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Need help creating a preconception care plan? Give us a call at 302-303-9165 or submit your contact information HERE and we will give you a call during normal business hours. We can help you create a plan to be in your best health before becoming pregnant.
You can also talk to your healthcare provider about how to optimize your preconception care plan to meet your individual needs.