Proper preparation for pregnancy is a vital step towards ensuring a healthy and safe journey. A mother's health before and during pregnancy significantly influences her baby's future health. In this article, we outline simple and necessary steps to help ensure better health for you and your future baby.

1. Talk to Your Doctor

If you and your partner have decided to welcome a new baby, schedule a consultation with your doctor. Prepare in advance the topics you'd like to discuss, especially if you have chronic conditions like diabetes. Ask about any adjustments you may need to make to your treatment plan during this new phase. (1)

Key topics to discuss with your doctor include: (2)

• Medications and supplements: Confirm whether your current medications are safe during pregnancy.
• Vaccinations: Ask about vaccines you should get before pregnancy and whether you're up to date on them.
• Pre-pregnancy screening: Consider a comprehensive health checkup, including a physical exam, blood tests, pelvic exam, and a Pap smear, to ensure overall health.

You can communicate and consult with distinguished doctors in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital Riyadh, with the highest standards of privacy and complete comfort

2. Start Taking Folic Acid Daily

Begin taking folic acid (Vitamin B9) from the moment you start planning your pregnancy and continue through the first 12 weeks. The recommended daily dose is 400 micrograms. (3)

Folic acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, a condition where the spine and spinal cord don't develop properly.

In some cases, doctors may recommend a higher dose of 5 milligrams, especially if you have certain risk factors like: 

• A family history of spina bifida (on either parent's side).
• Use of specific medications, such as epilepsy drugs.
• Diabetes or conditions affecting nutrient absorption.
• Obesity.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese can affect your chances of conception and increase the likelihood of complications during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and blood clots. Try to achieve a healthy weight before pregnancy through a balanced diet and regular exercise.  (4)

Nutrition Tips:

• Reduce your intake of sugary foods and desserts.
• Increase your consumption of proteins, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Consume moderate amounts of fish:some text
  • Up to 3 servings of fish per week (1 serving = ~113 grams).
  • Avoid high-mercury fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish.
  • Limit tuna consumption (to one can of white tuna or two cans of light tuna weekly). (5)

Exercise Tips:

Engage in regular physical activity before pregnancy to help your body adjust to the many changes during pregnancy and childbirth. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise, 5 times a week, and consult your doctor about suitable exercises during pregnancy.  (5)

4. Quit Smoking

Studies show that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The same risks apply to exposure to secondhand smoke. Avoid smoking entirely if you're planning to conceive.(2)

5. Take Care of Your Mental Health

The pre-pregnancy phase can be stressful. Prioritize your mental well-being by managing stress and anxiety. Here’s how: (5)

• Ensure you get enough sleep daily.
• Practice meditation and relaxation exercises.
• Surround yourself with supportive people to share your concerns.
• Consult a doctor if you feel you need additional support or professional mental health care.

References

1. CDC- About Planning for Pregnancy
2. Hopkins Medicine - How to Prepare for Pregnancy
3. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby - Folate (folic acid) and pregnancy
4. NHS - Planning your pregnancy
5. MedlinePlus - Steps to take before you get pregnant