Dr. Boyd shares his perspective on how to prepare for an upcoming pregnancy.
Over the past 26 years many patients have come into my office and asked, “What should I do to prepare for my upcoming pregnancy?” I am going to share with you what I have discussed with women over the past 26 years. This information has helped many women have a successful pregnancy, labor, and birth.
1. Healthcare Provider
I am not saying that every woman should see their healthcare provider before they get pregnant, but I encourage women to think about it.
Do you suffer from a low blood count due to heavy periods? Seeing your healthcare provider before pregnancy is important if you think you suffer from anemia. Maybe you feel weak, look pale, experience shortness of breath, etc.
Do you suffer from hypothyroidism? You can have this assessed by receiving a blood test at your healthcare provider’s office.
Have you had a recent pap smear? Do you fall in the guidelines of having a pap smear performed within at least the past 3 years?
Do you suffer from STIs, Chlamydia or Gonorrhea?. These should be assessed before you become pregnant.
Seeing your healthcare provider with specific questions will aid in appropriate preparation for pregnancy.
Thin about yourself, and make an informed decision about seeing your doctor before pregnancy.
2. Healthy Body
Is your body healthy for pregnancy? Do you have a body mass index of less than 35? How is your nutrition?
The risks factors for you and your baby decrease dramatically if you can get your BMI below 35. Body mass index can be calculated by simply knowing your weight and your height. You can then plug that into a BMI calculator (Click Here).
Do you smoke, drink, or take drugs? Those should be stopped immediately before moving forward with your pregnancy.
Do you suffer from any type of depression? This has the potential to get worse as you move forward with your pregnancy, and you should discuss this with your psychiatrist. Also, discuss psychiatric medications that are safe for pregnancy with your doctor.
3. Prenatal Vitamin
Prenatal vitamins can be purchased over the counter. My favorite prenatal vitamin is MegaFood Baby and Me ( https://amzn.to/2Cmxcfc ). If you do not purchase the Baby and Me then make sure it has adequate amount of folic acid, at least 400 mcg. I recommended that you add 1 mg of folic acid to help decrease your baby’s risk of developing a neural tube defect.
These vitamins should be taken everyday prior to conception and during pregnancy.
These are some things that I have recommended to my patients over the past 26 years, and I hope they are helpful to you.
You are almost pregnant or currently pregnant, and delivery day will come faster than you expect. Prep work is necessary for a smooth and successful vaginal birth. Do you want some help making a plan for birth? Download the FREE Pearently Natural Birth Workbook. This 4 Step Process is a great start if you are considering a med-free birth. Download below…
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