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How to Prepare Your Body for Becoming Pregnant

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By Sarah Letts
eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)
Prepare Your Body for Becoming Pregnant
Prepare Your Body for Becoming Pregnant
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If you are thinking about becoming pregnant, it's important to take care of your body. You are about to require a lot out of your body so you want to enter pregnancy in tip-top shape. You can start preparing your body for pregnant between three and 12 months before you conceive.

From Quick Guide: Get Pregnant 101
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Stop taking any birth control bills. While you may be able to conceive directly after stopping birth control medication, it sometimes takes the body up to three months to re-establish a normal menstrual cycle.

  2. Step 2

    Check your body mass index, commonly known as BMI, You should be within the healthy range. If you are underweight, you will have difficulty getting pregnant.

  3. Step 3

    Consume a nutritious, well-balanced diet. As you prepare for pregnancy, it's essential that your body is well-nourished. Aim to eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid excess sugar and fat. Try to consume at least three servings of calcium daily as well as adequate protein.

  4. Step 4

    Avoid toxins altogether. If you smoke cigarettes, you should quit prior to trying to conceive. Avoid alcohol, artificial sweeteners, drugs and caffeine. If you are an avid coffee drinker, begin weaning yourself off caffeine by substituting half your usual cup with decaf.

  5. Step 5

    Take a folic acid supplement daily. You can also aim to get 400 micrograms of folic acid through fresh food such as nuts, citrus fruits and leafy green vegetables.

  6. Step 6

    Exercise. If you don't exercise already, start a regular fitness routine. Aim to get about 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise three to four times a week. This will help your body be stronger for pregnancy and labor. You can maintain an exercise routine while you are pregnant but it's wise to discuss your particular regime with your doctor.

  7. Step 7

    Visit your gynecologist for a pre-pregnancy exam. Your doctor will preform a standard pap smear, vaginal exam and blood work. He will also discuss your pregnancy plans with you. If your doctor advises you to begin taking pre-natal vitamins, do so.

Tips & Warnings
  • Avoid chemical substances such as toxic cleaning products when you are trying to conceive.

Comments  

chnaziz said

Flag This Comment

on 8/17/2008 This is really very good information.Thanks

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