|
What should I discuss with
my doctor before I try to get pregnant?
Check with your doctor whether the medicines you are
taking are safe during pregnancy. Also, discuss any
medical conditions or illnesses like diabetes, hypertension,
tuberculosis, etc that run in your family.
Do
I need to change my diet?
A mother's diet can have a major impact on the child's
overall development, even while still in its mother's
womb. It is important that you eat a variety of foods
with as much fresh food as possible. This will ensure
that you get a wide range of vitamins and minerals in
their natural form. If your diet is not healthy and
you have a habit of eating junk food (non-nutritious
calories), this is the time to start thinking about
your baby and altering your diet.
Do
I need to take any dietary supplements?
It has been recommended that women planning a baby should
take at least 400 mg of folic acid every day before
they become pregnant, and at a minimum of the first
12 weeks of pregnancy. (Many doctors advise taking folic
acid supplements for the entire duration of the pregnancy
and nursing, but not necessarily while trying to get
pregnant.) Many of the breakfast cereals are high in
folic acid. Check the label on the cereal box.
Why
do I need to take a test for German Measles?
It is advisable
to take a test for German Measles (Rubella) before getting
pregnant because catching Rubella when you are pregnant
could result in serious defects in the baby. A previous
infection or illness may not have given you the immunity.
What
are the benefits of exercise?
Carrying and delivering a baby requires that a mother
be fit and to have muscles in good shape. If you are
already not in shape, start exercising so that you tone
your muscles, preferably before you get pregnant. It
will be much easier to regain your figure post-pregnancy.
Working out will also help you to lose excess weight,
if any. However, do not go overboard. Excessive exercise
can interfere with ovulation making conception difficult.
It could also lead to rise in body temperatures that
are harmful to the body.
|
