Are you ready to get pregnant? If so, there are several preparations before starting a pregnancy program that you can do. This preparation is important so that the body is ready for pregnancy and you are more comfortable going through the pregnancy until the time of delivery arrives.
You can prepare before starting a pregnancy program to increase fertility, have a more comfortable pregnancy, and give birth to a healthy baby. There are several preparations that need to be done to start a pregnancy program, from consulting a doctor to adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Some Preparatory Steps Before Starting a Pregnancy Program
For those of you who are planning a pregnancy program, here are some preparations you need to do:
1. Consult a gynecologist regularly
Consulting a gynecologist is an important preparation before starting a pregnancy program. Through this examination, the doctor will conduct a medical examination related to a history of certain diseases that may affect pregnancy. This is especially important if you are trying to conceive after a miscarriage.
During this health check, the doctor will also advise you to get vaccinations, such as the tetanus, hepatitis B, rubella, HPV, measles, and diphtheria vaccines. The purpose of vaccination is to keep the mother and fetus healthy during pregnancy
2. Dental and oral health check
Regular dental and oral health checks at the dentist also need to be done as a form of preparation before starting the pregnancy program. The reason is, hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy can increase the risk of dental and oral disease. This condition can also affect the health of the fetus.
Therefore, it is important to have regular dental check-ups before starting a pregnancy program so that treatment can be carried out immediately when dental and oral health problems are detected.
3. Determine body mass index
For those of you who have an ideal body weight, the chances of getting pregnant will be easier. To determine whether your body weight is ideal or not, you can do a body mass index (BMI).
If your BMI results indicate that you are underweight or overweight (obese), your chances of getting pregnant may be reduced. In addition, a weight that is not ideal can also increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including premature birth and low birth weight.
To overcome excess or underweight, consult a doctor regarding the recommended diet to get a healthy and ideal weight.
4. Consuming folic acid supplements
One of the preparations before starting a pregnancy program that is no less important is taking pregnancy supplements that contain folic acid. These supplements are useful for increasing fertility and preventing babies from birth defects, such as anencephaly and spina bifida.
In order to increase the potential for the success of the pregnancy program and the baby in the future to avoid the above risks, it is recommended that you meet the intake of folic acid as much as 400-600 micrograms (mcg) every day. You can get folic acid through food or prenatal supplements.
5. Prepare your mental state
Preparation before starting a pregnancy program is not only physical health, but also mental health. Everyone must have felt stressed, anxious, sad, or worried. You should be able to control it well, because psychological disorders can interfere with your health and that of the fetus.
Consult a doctor or psychologist, if you have psychological problems, such as severe stress, anxiety disorders, or depression.
6. Live a healthy lifestyle
Living a healthy lifestyle is part of the preparation before starting a pregnancy program. You are advised to eat a balanced diet and avoid foods that contain lots of sugar, salt, and caffeinated drinks such as coffee or alcohol.
Eat foods that are high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, such as fruit, vegetables, nuts, fish, eggs, lean meats, and dairy and dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt.
If you have a smoking habit or have ever used drugs, from now on try to leave the habit.
7. Exercise regularly
In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, you are also advised to exercise regularly. Exercise is known to help the body adapt to the changes experienced during pregnancy and childbirth.
You are advised to spend at least 30 minutes each day, either before getting pregnant or during pregnancy. However, adjust the type of exercise to your health condition.
Preparation before starting a pregnancy program is important to support pregnancy and the health of you and your fetus. If you have certain medical conditions, you should consult your obstetrician so that the doctor can provide advice regarding the preparation for a pregnancy program that needs to be done.
