Planning for a pregnancy basics

When patients present for fertility consultation there is only one question your health care provider should start with: Are you healthy and ready for pregnancy? Meaning are both of your healthy for pregnancy.

This means having some basic pregnancy planning laboratory tests, examinations, catch up on vaccinations, begin prenatal vitamins, and get a genetic consultations. For most couples this is a relatively short consultation, a few blood tests and you are going to be ready to try.

Home tests for her include OPK ovulation predictor kits, home tests for him could include a sperm fertility check. If either test is abnormal, come in as a couple to discuss the plan

If you have a trip, especially to an area with Zika cases, or other infections, then timing of your pregnancy is going to be extra important.

If you are planning when to stop your contraception or how to adjust medications for any chronic illnesses it's important to see your gynecologist and your medical health care provider to discuss the safe way to manage those steps.

It's not a bad idea to just try without any extensive cycle tracking for 2-6 months. Then get advice as to when to start tracking your cycles, using ovulation kits, or even having fertility testing and treatments.

If your physician hasn't discussed health pregnancy with you, before you begin pushing the fertility drugs to help conceive, you are putting yourself and your baby at potential risks that can be avoided.

#pregnancy #nutrtion