By: @___georga.nat
Preconception care is not only to prepare your body for conception, but it also helps to promote the health and development of the baby. Preconception care should begin three to four months prior to conceiving. This is because eggs required for conception must go through the process of maturation, which takes approximately 100 days. This also applies to sperm health - sperm go through a process of maturation which roughly takes 90 days to be produced and ready for fertilization. See below for some tips on preconception care.
Pathology Check Up
Pathology provides us with great insights into your overall health. It also provides us with a checklist of markers that we need to improve prior to conceiving. For example, iron is one of the most common deficiencies for females, especially for those of us that bleed, but it is essential for supporting a healthy conception and pregnancy. Performing a preconception pathology screening will help you to identify your deficiencies and provide guidance on the best ways to support your body throughout pregnancy.*
*Speak to your Doctor or health care specialist and they will be able to arrange a Preconception pathology screening.
Introducing Supplements
Based on your pathology results, supplements can help to improve certain markers that are in a less than optimal range. Supplementing throughout your pregnancy can also help to reduce any of the new symptoms that come along with pregnancy. For example, omega 3 can help to reduce “baby brain”, improve your mental health, and reduce the risk of postpartum depression.*
*Speak to your health care specialist/doctor before taking new supplements – to make sure they are safe for pregnancy.
Eat a More Balanced Whole Food Diet
Eating a wholefood diet will naturally increase your intake of essential nutrients and vitamins for a healthy conception. Make sure you are eating a diet rich in omega 3, protein, iron, zinc, b vitamins, and vitamin D.
Reducing Caffeine & Alcohol Intake
When caffeine and alcohol are consumed in excess, it can reduce one’s chances of conception and negatively impact fertility. For a healthy conception, aim to reduce both your caffeine and alcohol intake. Hint: act as if you are already pregnant.
Preconception care is not just for the one growing the baby, but also for the partner. It is vital for both partners to work towards reaching their optimal health prior to conceiving the baby, as this will determine the overall health of the baby.
