How To Prepare For Pregnancy
The one thing all future mothers have in common is to deliver a beautiful healthy baby.
But every woman expects different things from pregnancy, and has a different set of preferences. Since this is your baby you are planning for, it stands to reason that you get to decide how to do things, every step along the way.
There are many decisions you will have to make soon, so here is an overview of what you will need to consider.
A Partner
You will need a support system for the journey. Are you married? Do have a significant other? Are you planning to be a single Mom? Make sure you have a partner to back you up, which ever way you decide to go.
Birth Control
Now is the time to stop your method of birth control. Whether you are using hormone pills, an IUD, or the barrier types like a diaphragm, yo no longer need them
Folic Acid
All women planning a pregnancy need to start taking folic acid. This is not just for you, but the baby as well. Check with your physician, as to the dose and brand.
Care Giver
Who your care giver will depend on how and where you plan to give birth. There are home births or hospital births. There are midwives, and doulas who are well trained and qualified. If you are looking for an obstetrician and a hospital birth, start checking hospitals in your area. Ask your friends for suggestions.
Physical Exams
Your health needs to be assessed, so you can know if there are any concerns that need to be addressed You will need a physical exam, a gynecological exam and a dental exam
Meds
While you are the doctor, discuss any meds you are taking. It’s best to be off of everything, but that is not always possible. Be very careful with over the counter drugs, and if you choose the alternative routs, you will still need to clear that with an expert.
Substances
Now is the time to clean out and detox. Alcohol, cigarettes and drugs get tossed out yesterday. Your baby deserves the best of everything.
Fitness
Be the strongest you can be. It’s time to hit the gym. Any exercise will be of benefit to your body. It will be going through many changes, and if you are fit, you won’t feel all the changes as much. You also will be able to continue after the delivery, and your body will come back even quickly, and maybe even better.
Nutrition
If you have been eating right always, this step won’t be so hard. It is best for you and baby to learn what is healthy, what is not, and how to eat for optimal pregnancy health. Get rid of the empty calories and start with fruits, veggies, complex carbs, lots of water and you will fly through the pregnancy.
Stress Reduction
The mind is just as important as the body. Start taking some relaxation classes now, and learn how to control stress and anxiety. There is plenty of that before a pregnancy, and it can increase when you are tired and nauseous and maybe moody.
Financial Considerations
Having a baby can be quite costly. There are medical bills, cribs, carriages, diapers, pediatric bills, clothes, formula, (breast feeding is more economical) and more. Money is never a good reason not to do something you want, but there will be expenses and you need to prepare wisely.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing is more advanced than ever, and more popular than ever. 50 years ago there was very little testing, and healthy babies were born, and parents never looked back. It is different today. Some parents debate taking these test, because of difficult moral and ethical decisions that may have to be made. Others wouldn’t think twice. Nevertheless, these tests are available, and the choice has to be made by you.
This overview can give you a beginning on your path towards pregnancy and parenthood. Use it well and wisely, and of course, wishing you a beautiful and healthy baby.
