Preconception Preparation: What You Need to Know for a Healthy Start

Pregnancy is an important milestone in a woman's life and it is important to plan and prepare ahead of time for a healthy pregnancy. In this article, we explain what you need to know about preconception preparation.

Health Checks: When planning a pregnancy, it is important to do health checks. By scheduling an appointment with your doctor, you can assess your general health and get information about the tests and vaccinations you should do before pregnancy.

Diet: It is important to establish a healthy diet before pregnancy. A balanced diet helps you get the nutrients your body needs. Consuming foods containing important vitamins and minerals such as folic acid helps you establish a proper nutritional habit.

Vitamins and Supplements: Some vitamin and mineral supplements may be recommended before and during pregnancy. Folic acid, in particular, is a vitamin that is important to take before pregnancy. Your doctor will advise you on which supplements you should take.

Smoking and Alcohol: It is important to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy. Smoking and alcohol can harm the baby's health and cause complications. If you smoke or drink alcohol, you can seek help from a doctor to quit while planning a pregnancy.

Physical Activity: Physical activity is important for a healthy pregnancy. Exercising regularly before pregnancy will help you strengthen your body and achieve better physical condition during pregnancy. However, it's important to avoid excessive exercise and follow your doctor's recommendations.

Stress Management: Pre-pregnancy stress management is also important. Stress can negatively affect the pregnancy process. You can try activities that help reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques.

Medicines and Diseases: When planning a pregnancy, it is important to share with your doctor the medicines you use and your current diseases, if any. Some drugs should not be used during pregnancy and some diseases can affect pregnancy. Your doctor will guide you in this regard.

As a result, pre-pregnancy preparation forms the basis of a healthy pregnancy process. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, going to regular health check-ups, eating right, avoiding harmful habits and managing stress are important steps in the pre-pregnancy preparation process. Remember, it is always best to get support from your doctor during the pregnancy planning process.