Planned Parenthood

Parenthood has a flair for catching a couple unplanned. Lucky are those, who have an option to plan babies!

The Need

By the time a woman misses her period, and becomes aware of pregnancy, she is more than three weeks pregnant. The initial two to eight weeks after conception are crucial as baby's facial features and organs, such as the heart and kidneys, begin to form. Planning gives an edge to a healthy pregnancy.

First Thing First

When to come off contraception and get in conception? Toss aside artificial barriers and you can begin right away. However, when on oral contraceptive pills, gynaecologists advise a minimum of two menstrual cycles to go by before you begin trying for baby.

Folic Acid Talk

Women who get enough folic acid (a B vitamin) during pregnancy are less likely to have a baby with serious problems of the brain or spinal cord. Start taking folic acid early, at least 3 months before getting pregnant.

Know Your Test Score

• When planning a pregnancy your doctor may order few tests. Test yourself against Rubella (German measles). You can get a vaccination before you try to get pregnant to prevent this.
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia can make it hard for you to get pregnant and can also harm your baby. Screen yourself against them, if you suspect a possibility for STDs.
• Test yourself against genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia, thalassaemia, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy.
• HIV (human immuno deficiency virus) causes AIDS (acquired immuno deficiency syndrome), can be passed into your baby.
• Depending on the status of your health, your doctor may ask you to get screened for anemia, diabetes and hypertension.

Lifestyle Modifications

A healthy body encourages a healthy conception.

• Eat a good diet and quit cigarettes, drugs and alcohol.
• Have an active lifestyle and watch your weight.
• Manage stress well.
• Do not self medicate, and while taking medicines, inform your doctor that you are planning for a baby.

Time Is Flying

The best time for a woman to have a baby is in her twenties. As she grows older, particularly once she is past her early thirties, she is more likely to experience complications.