Pregnancy Planning Checklist - Things To Be Considered while Planning A Pregnancy

Planning a pregnancy can be a time one cannot forget, it brings to mind romance between the couple and excitement at preparing for the new addition to their family. All parents want the best for their children and strive to provide an environment that aids in the proper development and growth of their baby.

Pregnancy Planning Checklist

There are certain things that you may have to consider while Planning a pregnancy such as

1. Visit a physician to have a check up to ensure that it is all right for you both to have a baby. The visit may help alert you to any condition that may need attention and which may influence your condition during pregnancy. Vaccinations against German measles, tetanus, hepatitis b etc. are recommended. It is usually safe to try getting pregnant after three normal menstrual cycles after you have discontinued oral birth control pills. The period in between is a vulnerable period that you have to be careful of in order to avoid accidents. Ask the doctor what measures to take to prevent these.
2. A visit to a genetic counselor may be advised if you or your partner has a genetic disorder or if you have been exposed to a teratogen. Teratogens are hazards such as radiation, heavy metals, solvents, paint fumes, anesthesia etc. that you may have come in contact with.
3. A visit to the dentist is also recommended.
4. Planning a pregnancy includes charting your ovulation period and making love when you are most fertile. Couples usually have successful conception within about 12 months of unprotected sex. In the event that it is getting delayed the physician may ask you both to undertake a fertility test. Fear not as there are cures and treatments as well as alternative methods available to help you deal with fertility problems.
5. Planning a pregnancy gives you the time to get ready financially for your baby. Start saving money from the time you decided you want a baby. Get a good health insurance cover; make sure it offers you the kind of care that you require such as private or public etc.
6. A regular exercise regime to stay fit and eat healthy can be taken up by both of you. Avoid smoking, drugs, alcohols and substance abuse. Stay away from hazardous chemicals at work and at home. if your work environment puts you at risk you may consider a change of job to help preserve your health and secure that of the child you plan to have.
7. Take supplements of folic acid and multi-vitamins, calcium and eat healthy. Include green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, dry fruits, nuts, fortified cereals etc. Avoid junk food, raw or undercooked meat and animal products, soft cheeses, unpasteurized milk, fish that are rich in mercury such as shark, marlin, swordfish etc.
8. Avoid taking over-the-counter medication or herbal products without consulting your physician.
9. Reading books about planning a pregnancy and about conception, care during pregnancy, the changes that may occur etc. may help prepare you for the changes in your life.
10. Practice stress relieving techniques such as yoga and meditation. Stress can inhibit conception as well as cause problems during pregnancy. It is important that you stay calm while planning a pregnancy and also while you are pregnant.
11. Decide if you want to stay at home to care for the baby or want to return to work. Ask other women at work about maternity leave, whether you are entitled to paid leave etc.
12. Organize your home. Be ready for the time when you will not be able to pay much attention to it, that is after child birth!

These are some of the factors that you may consider while planning a pregnancy. It is a wonderful time, be sure to enjoy it, stay calm and strengthen the bond that exists between you and your partner.