Changes you need to make for a healthy pregnancy
Pregnancy is a complex process, and a lot of factors can influence it. Some couples conceive within a month of trying, while for others, the waiting period can be longer because their body is unprepared for it. Having a healthy pregnancy and baby starts before you get pregnant. For that, it is essential to prepare yourself emotionally as well as physically. Pre-conception planning can help you and your partner understand how to improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy. It is done by undergoing some tests and making some lifestyle changes. Here is a checklist you need to adhere to when trying to get pregnant.
Medical test
A pre-pregnancy test can help you determine any health-related complications that may interfere with your chances of conceiving. Both you and your partner need to undergo a medical check-up to ensure that you two are healthy and can conceive. During the examination, the health care provider can go over issues like you and your families’ health histories to gain a better understanding of factors that may increase the chances of complications.
Review medicines you two are taking
It is recommended to clean your medicine cabinet when planning a baby. Review all the over-the-counter medicine and herbs you have been taking on a daily basis for health issues like headaches, colds, and anxiety. Discuss them with your doctor as they may contain some ingredients that might not be good during pregnancy.
Add multivitamins
The nine-month-long journey of pregnancy isn’t easy for a woman. Pregnancy leads to several physical and emotional changes. This increases the demand for nutrients to stay healthy and fit. Besides, nutrients are also required to meet the demand of the growing baby inside the womb. So, you need to up your multivitamin intake to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Talk to your doctor and increase the intake of multivitamins and folic acids, which are required for the growth of the baby.
Manage your weight
If you or your partner have a higher Body Mass Index (BMI), take steps to manage your weight. Excess weight may be a little problematic for those trying to conceive. Along with that if you are suffering from many metabolic diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes, take medicines and try to keep the levels in control.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Quit smoking, drinking and manage your sleeping schedule for a healthy pregnancy. These three things have a major impact on you and your baby’ healthy during and after the pregnancy. Sleep at least 8-9 hours a day.
Exercise
Exercising is crucial both before and during pregnancy. By exercising we do not mean that you have to perform a rigorous workout. The idea is just to stay physically active. For that, you can try walking, yoga, or even pilates, whatever suits you. Try to exercise at least 3 times a week for an hour.
Eat healthily
Multivitamins help to meet the increasing demand of the body, do not rely on them solely. Have healthy and nutritious foods from the time you are trying to get pregnant. Cut down the intake of junk and fatty food items. Have more leafy greens, fruits, nuts, whole grains and healthy fats.