The Do's of Pre-Planning

In this articleWhat should I discuss with my doctor before I try to get pregnantDo I need to change my dietDo I need to take any dietary supplementsWhy do I need to take a test for German MeaslesWhat are the benefits of exerciseWhat should I discuss with my doctor before I try to get pregnant Check with your doctor whether the medicines you are taking are safe during pregnancy. Also, discuss any medical conditions or illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, tuberculosis, etc that run in your family. Do I need to change my diet A mothers diet can have a major impact on the childs overall development, even while still in its mothers womb. It is important that you eat a variety of foods with as much fresh food as possible. This will ensure that you get a wide range of vitamins and minerals in their natural form. If your diet is not healthy and you have a habit of eating junk food (non-nutritious calories), this is the time to start thinking about your baby and altering your diet. Do I need to take any dietary supplements It has been recommended that women planning a baby should take at least 400 mg of folic acid every day before they become pregnant, and at a minimum of the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. (Many doctors advise taking folic acid supplements for the entire duration of the pregnancy and nursing, but not necessarily while trying to get pregnant.) Many of the breakfast cereals are high in folic acid. Check the label on the cereal box. Why do I need to take a test for German Measles It is advisable to take a test for German Measles (Rubella) before getting pregnant because catching Rubella when you are pregnant could result in serious defects in the baby. A previous infection or illness may not have given you the immunity. What are the benefits of exercise Carrying and delivering a baby requires that a mother be fit and to have muscles in good shape. If you are already not in shape, start exercising so that you tone your muscles, preferably before you get pregnant. It will be much easier to regain your figure post-pregnancy. Working out will also help you to lose excess weight, if any. However, do not go overboard. Excessive exercise can interfere with ovulation making conception difficult. It could also lead to rise in body temperatures that are harmful to the body.

What should I discuss with my doctor before I try to get pregnant

Check with your doctor whether the medicines you are taking are safe during pregnancy. Also, discuss any medical conditions or illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, tuberculosis, etc that run in your family.

Do I need to change my diet

A mother's diet can have a major impact on the child's overall development, even while still in its mother's womb. It is important that you eat a variety of foods with as much fresh food as possible. This will ensure that you get a wide range of vitamins and minerals in their natural form. If your diet is not healthy and you have a habit of eating junk food (non-nutritious calories), this is the time to start thinking about your baby and altering your diet.

Do I need to take any dietary supplements

It has been recommended that women planning a baby should take at least 400 mg of folic acid every day before they become pregnant, and at a minimum of the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. (Many doctors advise taking folic acid supplements for the entire duration of the pregnancy and nursing, but not necessarily while trying to get pregnant.) Many of the breakfast cereals are high in folic acid. Check the label on the cereal box.

Why do I need to take a test for German Measles

It is advisable to take a test for German Measles (Rubella) before getting pregnant because catching Rubella when you are pregnant could result in serious defects in the baby. A previous infection or illness may not have given you the immunity.

What are the benefits of exercise

Carrying and delivering a baby requires that a mother be fit and to have muscles in good shape. If you are already not in shape, start exercising so that you tone your muscles, preferably before you get pregnant. It will be much easier to regain your figure post-pregnancy. Working out will also help you to lose excess weight, if any. However, do not go overboard. Excessive exercise can interfere with ovulation making conception difficult. It could also lead to rise in body temperatures that are harmful to the body.