The decision to start a family is one of the most exciting journeys you will ever embark on. While the thought of a little one fills your heart with joy, taking some time to prepare your body and life can make all the difference for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. This preparatory stage is what we doctors call pre-conception care. It’s about creating the best possible foundation for a new life.
Many couples think that pregnancy planning starts only after they stop using contraception. But the best time to start is 3 to 6 months before you begin trying to conceive. At Borneo Hospitals, our gynaecologists believe that proper pre-conception care is the first gift you give to your future child.
So, where do you begin? Here are seven essential things our doctors, including our expert Dr. Vrushali Pillai, advise every couple to do first.
1. Schedule a Pre-Conception Health Checkup
Before you even think about tracking ovulation, your first step should be a visit to your gynaecologist for a pre-pregnancy health checkup. This isn’t just a routine visit; it’s a detailed consultation to ensure you are in the best possible health. Good pre-conception care starts with knowing your body.
What to expect during this visit?
1. Medical History Review:
Your doctor will discuss your personal and family medical history, any chronic illnesses (like diabetes, thyroid issues, or high blood pressure), and past pregnancies.
2. Physical Examination:
This includes a pelvic exam, a Pap smear test if you’re due for one, and checks on your weight and blood pressure.
3. Blood Tests:
Essential tests are done to check for anaemia (low iron), blood type, Rh factor, and immunity to diseases like rubella and chickenpox. Your doctor will also screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
This checkup is the perfect time to ask all your questions about getting pregnant. It is a vital part of pre-conception care.
2. Embrace a Nutrient-Rich Diet & Start Folic Acid
Nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy pregnancy. What you eat before you conceive directly impacts your fertility and the baby’s early development.
The Folic Acid Imperative:
This is the most critical pre-pregnancy supplement. Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is proven to prevent major birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine, known as neural tube defects. These defects can happen very early in pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant.
Our Doctor’s Advice: We recommend starting a daily supplement of 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid at least one month before you start trying to conceive.
Focus on a Balanced Indian Diet:
A healthy thali (plate) is naturally balanced. Include plenty of green leafy vegetables (like palak), lentils (dal), whole grains (roti, brown rice), fruits, and dairy products (dahi, paneer). Reduce your intake of processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats. A proper diet is key to your pre-conception care journey.
3. Achieve a Healthy Body Weight
Being either underweight or overweight can affect your fertility by causing hormonal imbalances and problems with ovulation. Working towards a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) is a crucial part of how to prepare for pregnancy.
If You Are Overweight:
Losing even 5% to 10% of your body weight can significantly improve your chances of conception. Focus on a combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise.
If You Are Underweight:
Being underweight can also disrupt your menstrual cycle. Work with your doctor or a nutritionist to gain weight in a healthy manner.
4. Make Important Lifestyle Changes
A healthy lifestyle is about more than just diet and exercise. This is the time to quit habits that can harm you and your future baby. These lifestyle changes before pregnancy are non-negotiable.
- Stop Smoking: Smoking is linked to lower fertility in both men and women and increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.
- Avoid Alcohol: There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Since you don’t know exactly when you’ll conceive, it’s best to stop drinking alcohol completely when you start planning for a baby.
- Limit Caffeine: High amounts of caffeine have been linked to fertility issues. Limit your intake to one or two small cups of chai or coffee per day.
- Men’s Health Matters Too: A man’s health also impacts the baby. Men should also follow these lifestyle changes to ensure healthy sperm.
5. Review Your Vaccinations
Some infections can be very dangerous during pregnancy. As part of your pre-conception care, your doctor will check if you are up-to-date on your vaccinations.
Key Vaccinations to Consider:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Rubella infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects. You must get this vaccine at least one month before getting pregnant.
- Varicella (Chickenpox): This can also cause complications.
- Hepatitis B & Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): Your doctor will advise if you need these.
6. Look Into Your Family’s Genetic History
While it may seem daunting, understanding your family’s genetic history can be very helpful. If you or your partner has a family history of certain genetic disorders (like thalassemia, sickle cell anaemia, or cystic fibrosis), your doctor may suggest genetic screening. This is an advanced part of pre-conception care that empowers you with knowledge and options for a healthy baby.
7. Focus on Your Mental Health
Planning for a baby can be emotionally overwhelming. Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health.
- Manage Stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, light exercise, or a hobby. High levels of stress can sometimes affect fertility.
- Talk to Your Partner: Keep the lines of communication open. This journey is for both of you. Sharing your hopes and fears will strengthen your bond.
- Seek Help if Needed: If you feel overly anxious or depressed, don’t hesitate to speak with a professional. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength and a key part of how to prepare for pregnancy.
Your Journey Starts Now
Taking these seven steps will not only boost your chances of conceiving but also help ensure the healthiest possible start for your baby. This planning for a baby checklist is your roadmap. Remember, pre-conception care is an act of love for a child you haven’t even met yet.
Consult Our Experts
Every couple’s journey is unique. For personalised advice and a comprehensive pre-conception counselling session, we encourage you to consult with the expert doctors at Borneo Hospitals. Our team is here to guide you with compassion and expertise.
You can visit your nearest Borneo Hospital (https://borneohospitals.com)branch in Thane, Nashik, Waluj (Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar), or Raipur.
For your convenience, you can also call our helpline for advice. We invite you to make an appointment with our esteemed Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr. Vrushali Pillai (MBBS, DGO), who can provide you with a tailored plan for your journey to parenthood.
Further Reading & Authoritative Sources
- World Health Organisation (WHO): Preconception care: maximising the gains for maternal and child health
- FOGSI (Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India): Good Clinical Practice Recommendations on Preconception Care
- U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Planning for Pregnancy
- The Lancet (Research Paper): Before the beginning: nutrition and lifestyle in the preconception period and its importance for future health
