The decision to expand the family is a significant one. When the time is right, there are a wide range of benefits of properly preparing for conception. Preventative medicine can not only make fertility easier, but also decrease discomfort during pregnancy, as well as optimize mom's health after childbirth. In addition, preconception planning and health management can help the conception of a healthier baby, and decrease the child's risk for some chronic health problems later on.
In addition to preparing mentally, emotionally and financially for the addition of a baby, it is important to take proper steps to optimize the mother's health as she embarks upon pregnancy, and the tremendous changes that follow. Couples planning to conceive should seek health care, ideally 12 months prior to conception. This visit should include a thorough health history, as well as a complete physical exam and laboratory testing to rule out common obstacles to conception, such as thyroid problems or anemia. At this point, any menstrual irregularities, indicating hormone imbalance, should be addressed. A more holistic approach would also include testing for ovarian and adrenal hormone levels, as well as heavy metal toxicity.
If healthy nutritional habits have not been set, this is the ideal time. Food choices made now will impact fertility, pregnancy and the future of the baby's health. An ideal diet includes a variety of whole, organic foods, avoiding processed and packaged foods that are high in sugar, hydrogenated oils, preservatives, food dyes or genetically modified foods. Increase foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, raw nuts, seeds and beans, organic, free-range meats, wild fish and plenty of filtered water. A helpful way to reprogram suboptimal eating habits is a cleanse and detoxification program. This has the added benefit of cleaning out the liver, which is like changing the oil filter on your car, and cannot be done safely during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Along with optimizing nutrition, it's advisable to initiate a consistent and moderate exercise program that can be safely continued during pregnancy. Beneficial activities include walking, swimming, light weight lifting and yoga. Regular exercise and proper nutrition help to maintain ideal body weight. Both overweight and underweight women have increased rates of infertility.
Twelve months prior to conception is also a good time to complete any necessary dental work, address digestive disorders and discontinue smoking and other recreational drug use. Evaluate and eliminate exposure to toxins that pose hazard to reproduction, such as organic solvents, plastics, pesticides, industrial organic chemicals, and certain pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Three to six months prior to conception is a good time to switch to a high-quality prenatal vitamin. It's also a good idea to quit caffeinated beverages, including coffee, tea and soft-drinks, and instead drink more herbal teas and water. Minimize alcohol intake, since high consumption (more than 1 drink per day) may inhibit ovulation. This is also an ideal time to discontinue hormonal birth control methods, such as the pill or Depo-Provera, and switch to a barrier method.
Three to four months prior to conception, reduce stress levels in order to prepare your body and mind, as well as create emotional space for a new baby in your life. This includes regular, adequate sleep and proper self-care, such as rest, acupuncture, massage and meditation or prayer.
One month prior to conception eliminate alcohol completely and initiate a one to two week detoxification program, prescribed by a trained naturopathic doctor or nutritionist. As you begin your detox program, it is also advisable to discontinue the use of hair dyes, chemical cosmetic products and chemical household cleaning products.
When it's time to conceive, you and your partner can then rest assured and congratulate yourselves for preparing your body so that the baby can thrive in its earliest days of development and throughout the pregnancy. By planning ahead for conception, you can optimize your fertility and improve your health during pregnancy, as well as set healthy patterns for generations to come.
