Pregnancy is not just the nine months before your child is born. Good parents will take into account the months leading up to conception, as well. Optimal health prior to conception is now considered a great way of reducing risks and ensuring the best possible experience. This is also linked to healthier offspring! It is important to remember that ideal grounds for conception involve both parents, so it is best if both Mom and Dad are as healthy as they can be.
There are many ways to have a healthier conception. One way is to get rid of bad habits that might be hindering your fertility. Just consider the following:
Smoking – A shocking number of infant deaths are due to parental smoking – around twenty to thirty percent of underweight newborns and fourteen percent of premature babies are born to mothers who smoked throughout pregnancy. This harmful habit doesn’t just put babies at risk – around ten percent of infant deaths are caused by parental smoking. These statistics are a stark reminder of the importance of quitting smoking before starting a family. If you’re struggling to quit, talk to your doctor about ways to kick the habit for good.
Alcohol – There are many reasons why it’s best to avoid consuming alcohol during pregnancy and the months leading up to conception. Alcohol can have a negative impact on a developing fetus, and it is best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your baby’s health. If you are planning on becoming pregnant, it is best to drop any drinking habits before conception so that you can ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your child.
Prescription medications – Many medications come with a risk of birth defects. To avoid any risks, speak with your pharmacist and physician about stopping prescription drug use a few months before you plan on conceiving.
Herbal formulas – The FDA’s lack of regulation on herbal remedies says a lot. So, before you start using any herbal formulations, it’s important to discuss it with a physician first.
Caffeine – Coffee may be your “drug of choice,” but it can lead to a number of health problems, including increased blood pressure and an increased risk of miscarriage. Caffeine can have a significant impact on your body, so if you’re trying to conceive, it’s important to wean yourself off of caffeine gradually.
The health and wellbeing of both parents is essential to consider when making plans to conceive. To prepare for a healthy pregnancy, it’s important to focus on months of eating nutritiously, staying active through exercise and de-stressing with activities that allow you to relax. Not only does this provide a foundation for a healthier pregnancy, but it’s also going to help establish healthy habits that you can continue during pregnancy and beyond.
Before attempting to become pregnant, you should consult with your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions:
Diabetes
Anemia
High blood pressure
Thyroid problems
STDs
Special treatment may be required during pregnancy, and the more you know about it, the more you can prepare for it and enjoy a happy and healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy can come with a lot of challenges, but if you’re prepared for them, you can overcome them and have a wonderful experience.
