Planning for pregnancy is an exciting time and an opportunity to take steps that support a healthy pregnancy before conception occurs. Preparing for pregnancy may include optimizing your health, reviewing medications, updating vaccinations, considering genetic screening, and learning more about fertility and the menstrual cycle.
The resources below provide information on preconception health, fertility awareness, lifestyle factors, and other topics that may help you prepare for pregnancy. I hope these materials help you feel informed and confident as you begin your journey toward growing your family.
If you are considering pregnancy, there are several steps you can take before conception to help support a healthy pregnancy.
Some important considerations include:
• Start a daily prenatal vitamin containing folic acid
• Review your medications with your healthcare provider
• Optimize chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid disease
• Ensure vaccinations are up to date
• Avoid tobacco, recreational drugs, and excessive alcohol use
• Consider genetic carrier screening
• Learn how to identify your fertile window and track ovulation
Some patients also choose to schedule a preconception consultation prior to pregnancy. During a preconception visit, we may discuss:
• Review of your medical, surgical, and family history
• Current medications and supplements
• Vaccinations and immunity status
• Genetic carrier screening options
• Fertility awareness and timing of intercourse
• Lifestyle factors that may affect fertility or pregnancy
In some situations, additional testing may be recommended, including:
• Thyroid testing
• Diabetes screening (Hemoglobin A1c)
• Vitamin D testing
• Rubella immunity testing
• Varicella (chickenpox) immunity testing
• Genetic carrier screening
It is also important to remember that pregnancy often takes time. Even among healthy couples with no fertility concerns, the chance of conception is only about 20-30% each month. Many couples will conceive within the first several months of trying, while others may take longer.
In general, fertility evaluation is often considered after 12 months of trying to conceive without success for women under age 35, or after 6 months for women age 35 and older. However, evaluation may be appropriate sooner in certain situations depending on age, medical history, menstrual irregularities, or other concerns.
The resources below provide a helpful overview of these topics and can help you begin preparing for pregnancy.
The Menstrual Cycle: Menstruation, Ovulation & How Pregnancy Occurs (ACOG)
Recommended Videos:
Understanding Your Reproductive Anatomy (Natalie Crawford, MD)
Understanding Ovulation & Your Fertile Window (Natalie Crawford, MD)
Using Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs) (Natalie Crawford, MD)
Getting Pregnant: What Your Gynecologist Wants You To Know (Mama Doctor Jones)
How Long Does It Take To Get Pregnant? (Natalie Crawford, MD)
How Long Does It Really Take to Get Pregnant? (Lora Shahine, MD)
When Should You See A Fertility Specialist? (Natalie Crawford, MD)
Are Vaccinations a Good Idea if I'm Trying to Get Pregnant? (ASRM)
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