TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR LIFESTYLE
Written in association with midwife Sharron Trotter.
Eliminate unhealthy habits
We all have 'unhealthy' habits we would like to stop but never get around to doing anything about them. When you first start to think about becoming pregnant is the time to get around to it!
You should avoid excessive alcohol consumption and quit smoking to help your chances of conceiving.
If you are overweight it is recommended that you follow a diet that will help you reach your ideal weight without trying to lose too much too quickly. Once you reach your ideal weight you can maintain it through healthy eating and regular exercise. We strongly recommend you ask your doctor before starting any diet.
Exercise
If you aren't exercising already, you should begin to do so. Regular (moderate) exercise will strengthen the muscles needed during your pregnancy and delivery, improve circulation, relieve common aches and pains and help control weight gain.
Ensure you are getting enough of the right vitamins
It is important that you get the right vitamins before you become pregnant. The two most important vitamins are Folic Acid and Calcium. Medical research has shown that folic acid (a B Vitamin) can greatly reduce the chances of babies being born with neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
It is important to ensure that you are getting enough calcium. Once you are pregnant, nature will provide for the new baby's development by taking calcium from your body. It is essential therefore to make sure that you are getting enough calcium for both you and your baby. Either eat foods high in calcium, for example milk and dairy products, or take a calcium supplement.
It is best to get the vitamins you need by eating a healthy, balanced diet. However, you may wish to consider taking vitamin supplements such as vitamin C, chromium, magnesium, manganese selenium and zinc.
Your partner may also wish to take vitamin supplements prior to conception. These can include vitamins A, B12, C and E, arginine, ginseng, lysine, manganese, selenium, and zinc.
Visit your doctor
If you are planning to become pregnant you should visit your doctor for preconceptual advice.
Talk to your doctor about any vitamin supplements you wish to take.
* In clinical testing FIRST RESPONSE® detected the hormone levels in 62% of women, 6 days before the day of missed period (5 days before the day of expected period)#, 78% of women 5 days before their missed period, 87% of women 4 days before their missed period, 98% of women 3 days before their missed period and 99% of women 2 days before their missed period.
** Over 99% accurate at detecting typical pregnancy hormone levels. Note that hormone levels vary, some pregnant women may not have detectable amounts of the pregnancy hormone in their urine on the day they use the test. Follow the instructions enclosed with product.
# Researcher and Sponsor; Church & Dwight (Australia) Pty Ltd