Still In The Planning Stages: Considerations Concerning Conception

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

Most women plan for the day they see that second line on the pregnancy test, they dream and plan about telling their mate, friends, and family, even about the maternity clothes they’ll wear, when they’ll pop, how the nursery will look, and what kind of shower they’ll have. But, some may not consider if they are both mentally and physically prepared for this new and often welcome addition.

And, according to experts planning the pregnancy means more than just baby dancing and is just as important as preparing for preparing for the arrival of your little one. They suggest meeting with your doctor and discussing the following.

1. Pregnancy Precautions: If you’re one of the many ladies who’ve been “living on” birth control, your doctor may suggest taking a break before trying to conceive. Going off the pill for a while allows the body’s reproductive system to experience some normal cycles, making it easier to determine when ovulation occurred and to establish an expected due date. Also, during the pill free “period”, you may want to rely on condoms or some other form of contraception.

2. Your Immune System: Certain infections such as chickenpox (varicella) and German measles (rubella) may result in serious illness for your unborn child. If you aren’t immune to these infection your doctor may suggest vaccination at least a month before you try to conceive.

3. Chronic Conditions: Chronic medical conditions including diabetes and high blood pressure among others may mean monitoring and getting them under control before you try to conceive. Plus, your doctor may recommend special care during pregnancy.

4. Your Family Tree: It’s best to discuss your family history as well as your mate’s as a way of determining any risk factors your child may face. If genetic disorders are a concern, your doctor may recommend a genetic counselor for a preconception assessment.

5. Daily Meds and Supplements: You should inform your doctor of all medications, herbs, and/or supplements you are taking. Your doctor may recommend a genetic counselor for a preconception assessment.

6. Age: While having children well into your 30s is nothing new, women of the past with large families did it all the time, having children after 35 may pose certain risks, including fertility problems, miscarriage and certain chromosomal disorders. Additionally some women may experience high blood pressure and gestational diabetes so all these factors, as well as an appropriate pregnancy plan should be discussed with your doctor.

7. Previous Pregnancies: From successful to unsuccessful pregnancies, you doctor should be given all the details and specifics. And, he/she should be informed of any prior difficulties and/or complications such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, preterm labor, premature birth defects, etc. It’s also best to share any concerns or fears you may have about the pregnancy. Your doctor will help you determine the best way to increase your chances for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

8. Lifestyle: Remember, healthy lifestyle choices help give your baby a head start. Ask your doctor about healthy eating, exercising and controlling stress. It’s also best to refrain from drinking and recreational drugs as well as kicking the cigarette habit. If you can’t do it on your own, ask your doctor for assistance.

9. Your Partner’s Role: It’s a good idea, note experts, to have your partner join you in your preconception visits. After all he can clue the doctor in on his family history, questions he has, and also discuss lifestyle changes he may need to make