Pregnancy causes a lot of changes in the body. That is why preparing your body for pregnancy is so important. You will have an easier time handling the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy if you prepare for it. There are a number of ways that you can prepare your body for pregnancy.
Stop Drinking Alcohol
If you are a serious drinker, then it is essential to stop drinking and enter a women’s alcohol rehab before you attempt to conceive. However, there is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Even a little, if consumed at the wrong time, can lead to a condition called fetal alcohol syndrome. This condition causes growth problems and brain damage. In many cases, the effects of this condition cannot be reversed.
Take a Folic Acid Supplement
Folic acid is a nutrient that supports the growth and development of a baby. If you start taking folic acid one month before you get pregnant, then you will greatly reduce your baby’s chances of developing spina bifida. Folic acid is found in every prenatal vitamin. It is also found in many multivitamins. Experts recommend taking 400 mcg per day.
Clean Up Your Diet
The healthier you are before you get pregnant, the easier it will be for you to stay healthy during pregnancy. One of the best things that you can do to maintain optimal health before and during pregnancy is to follow a healthy diet. It is best for you to eat fresh foods and minimize your intake of processed foods.
Reduce Your Intake of Caffeine
Experts have not come to a consensus on what is considered a safe amount of caffeine to consume during pregnancy. However, they recommend that pregnant women avoid consuming caffeine at all. Some studies suggest that caffeine may increase the risk of miscarriage early in pregnancy. That is why it is a good idea for you to start cutting down your caffeine intake now.
De-Stress
Stress will not only make it harder for you to stay healthy during pregnancy, but it will also reduce your chances of conceiving. When you are stressed, your body produces more cortisol. This is a hormone that suppresses your ovulation. Your body also has a tendency to tense up during times of intense stress. This can reduce blood flow.
You should find ways to de-stress. You can de-stress by getting plenty of exercise. You should strive to get exercise most days of the week. You can also de-stress by listening to music, doing yoga or meditating.
Visit Your Dentist
You are more prone to dental problems when you are pregnant. If you already have dental problems, then they may worsen if you get pregnant. That is why it is important to visit a dentist.
Get Enough Sleep
The importance of sleep cannot be reiterated enough. Sleep is not only important for your overall health, but it also plays an important role in conception. A lack of sleep can lead to a hormonal imbalance. This can make it difficult to ovulate.
You will have to take the time to prepare your body for pregnancy. Giving up the alcohol, taking a folic acid supplement, cleaning up your diet and reducing your stress will help you prepare for your pregnancy. You will also need to see a dentist and make sure that you are sleeping well.