Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology P.C

9 Tips for Preparing Your Body for Pregnancy

Mar 15, 2023

The steps you take to prepare your body for pregnancy are just as necessary as how you care for your body during your pregnancy. It doesn't matter if you are preparing for your first or fifth child. Taking the required steps helps you have a healthy pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby. 

When preparing for your pregnancy, consult with us at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology in Rochester Hills, Lenox, and Troy, Michigan. Our team of OB/GYNs and medical professionals offer personalized care throughout your pregnancy, from preparation to delivery. 

We’re committed to ensuring you stay healthy throughout your pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby.

Read on to learn more about preparing your body for pregnancy with these nine tips. 

Cut out any unhealthy habits 

Unhealthy habits like smoking and consuming alcohol and caffeine in excess can hurt your chances of conceiving. It can also cause complications if you do get pregnant. 

Eat healthily and work out regularly 

Maintaining a healthy diet and an active lifestyle is essential for everyone. It becomes even more so when you are trying to get pregnant. Your diet should contain highly nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables. You should also limit processed foods high in sugar and salt content. 

You also need to stay active, but you don't need to spend hours in the gym or on a workout regime if you have a busy schedule. A brisk walk or run for 30 minutes daily is a good way to keep your body moving. 

Cut out stressors from your life 

Maintaining a stress-free life can be challenging, but you should prioritize stress management when trying to get pregnant. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are effective ways to manage stress. 

Stress can negatively affect fertility and pregnancy. Find ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or relaxation techniques. Make time for self-care and prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Start taking your prenatal vitamins

Prenatal vitamins help to prepare your body for a baby. These vitamins give you and your baby the necessary nutrients to stay healthy throughout pregnancy. Your prenatal vitamins should contain vitamin D, iron, calcium, and folic acid. 

Get a minimum of 7-9 hours of sleep every night 

The average adult requires 7-9 hours of sleep every night for optimal health and well-being. Create a consistent sleep schedule and avoid electronic devices at least an hour before bed for better sleep. 

Stay on top of your monthly cycle 

You can only get pregnant during the fertile days of your cycle, which is when you are ovulating and a few days after. Tracking your cycle helps you pinpoint when you are most likely to get pregnant during your cycle. You can use a period tracking app on your phone to do this.

Inform us of any preexisting conditions you may have 

Living with chronic disorders such as hypertension or diabetes can make getting pregnant challenging. Get ahead of it by informing us of any preexisting conditions you may have so we can help you efficiently manage your condition and increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Come in for genetic testing and counseling

Genetic conditions can be passed down to your baby through you or your partner. Coming in for genetic testing and counseling helps us identify and prepare for any likely disorders that could be passed to your baby. 

Schedule a preconception checkup with us 

You might think you only need to schedule a doctor's appointment after getting pregnant. But scheduling an appointment with us before you try to conceive is just as crucial. During your visit, we learn your family and medical history and ensure you are current on all necessary vaccinations and tests.

Let us help you get ready for your baby by calling us today or making an appointment online.