It is better to keep your  body  in good shape before trying to conceive. This will increase your chances of getting pregnant  and set you up for a healthy pregnancy.

 

Tips to help you prepare your body for a baby

 
In order to prepare your body for pregnancy , you have to

• quit smoking
• stop drinking alcohol
• maintain a healthy weight
• avoid illegal drugs

 
You should also try to see your doctor before trying to conceive.  He will perform a preconception  checkup . He will manage and treat any chronic medical conditions you may have such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and epilepsy.

The doctor  will also check the medications you are taking. He may need to change some of the medications. This is because some medications are not safe to take during pregnancy. If you have to  change  treatment, your body may need time to adjust so you need to make this appointment about 3 months before you try to conceive. Some over the counter medications such as ibuprofen are not safe in early pregnancy.

Your doctor may also talk about genetic and hereditary conditions sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis and thalassemia. He may also discuss previous ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages and terminations.

Depending on your general health, your doctor may recommend some screening and blood tests. You may be screened  for sexually transmitted diseases such as :

• chlamydia
• HIV
• hepatitis B
• syphilis

 
You will have a pap smear if you are due for one. You may  have a blood test to check if you are anemic. This is because  you may need extra iron supplements during pregnancy if you are anemic.

If you are not  sure whether you are immune to rubella or not, you may be offered a blood test to make sure.

It is essential to make sure your vaccinations are up to date.  Most preventable infections can cause miscarriage or birth defect. You may be vaccinated  against rubella if you are not immune to it. You may also choose to have a vaccine for hepatitis B if you are high risk.

You should start taking a daily 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid as soon as your decide to try for a baby. This will greatly reduce your risk for neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor.
 
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