There’s no bigger decision that conceiving. Because it’s a circumstance of monumental proportions, care and regard should be taken to get your body in the best possible shape.
Below are five things that will help get your body emotionally and physically ready to conceive.
1. Schedule a visit with your doctor:
Take the time to come prepared to the visit with a list of questions you’d like answered. Schedule the visit at a time when you won’t be rushing, this way you’ll be in the right state of mind to ask and listen to your doctor fully.
Your doctor should review your medical history, start you on a daily multivitamin, speak about any unhealthy habits you may have, and steer you in the right direction for when you’re finally ready to start trying. This also goes for your partner, have them make an appointment with their doctor and get answers to questions along with a plan for becoming your most healthiest.
If you don’t already know then become informed about each other’s medical and family medical history so you can be well prepared and informed of any medical issues that may arise or pass themselves on to your child.
2. Start Eating Healthy:
Many of us don’t analyze everything that we put into our bodies. If you’re thinking of having a baby, now is the perfect time to start taking inventory of what you eat on a daily basis.
Some habits may need to be given up (think fast food daily) while others may simply need to be expanded (instead of exercising thirty minutes a day - up that to an hour). Introduce proteins and veggies into your daily diet if you don’t already - cooking at home more is a simple way to make sure you keep track of what you’re consuming.
3. Examine Your Money Matters:
It’s almost impossible to pinpoint what having a child will cost, but that doesn’t mean you and your partner can’t prepare for it beforehand and have some money put away.
Keep in mind that with children, there’s always the option for unforeseen circumstances to arise and those will need to be dealt with emotionally as well as physically.
4. Consider Your And Your Partner’s Mental Health:
On top of scheduling a primary care appointment, you should also schedule a psychological review. Many factors, including depression and stress, can put a strain on conceiving.
It’s best to become aware of and treat any mental health issues before the baby comes along, this way you’ll be better equipped to handle the many ups and downs that come with having a child.
5. Track Your Ovulation:
It’s true that you can toss your birth control and let fate take over, but you can also examine the most effective times that you will be able to become pregnant. Drugstores sell kits that you can use in the privacy of your own home or you can consult with your OBGYN to help you pinpoint your most fertile times.
Being aware and informed are your best defenses for warding off any malfunctions when it comes time to conceive. Your body and your baby will thank you for it.