Health tips for getting pregnant

If you’re planning to become pregnant, a Dignity Health physician can help you have a healthy pregnancy. From treating hormone disorders that affect conception to determining your likelihood of a high-risk pregnancy, we’re dedicated to helping those trying to conceive.

Our physicians offer expert-driven preconception counseling to assess your overall health and help prepare you for a healthy delivery. Find a Doctor near you for personal care.

Health tips for getting pregnant

Your health plays an important role when trying to conceive. It’s also important to maintain good health to protect yourself and your unborn baby.

Visit your doctor

At least three months before trying to conceive, schedule a preconception counseling visit with your physician. Your doctor can evaluate your current health and help you prepare for a healthy pregnancy. This may involve adjusting your medications and helping you manage any chronic diseases.

Increase your folic acid

Folic acid, a type of B vitamin, can help prevent spine and birth defects in your baby. If possible, begin taking 400-800 micrograms of folic acid one month before you try to get pregnant. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking new supplements.

See your dentist

Part of planning for a healthy pregnancy is ensuring you have optimal oral health. Gum disease, a type of gum infection, can cause preterm birth. Your dentist can treat any dental issues that lead to pregnancy-related complications.

Avoid toxins

Toxins, including bug spray, fertilizer, and cat feces, are known to cause birth defects. Before and during your pregnancy, try to avoid or limit your exposure to harmful substances.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Changing certain lifestyle factors can increase your chances of a complication-free pregnancy and birth. Some of the first changes start with quitting drug and alcohol use. It’s important to know that smoking can cause preterm labor, and drinking alcohol during your pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome.

Other healthy lifestyle changes that prepare you for a healthy pregnancy include: 

• Quitting tobacco and electronic cigarettes (vaping)
• Not drinking alcohol
• Eating mainly whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
• Limiting processed foods
• Maintaining a healthy weight

Pregnancy tips from the experts at Dignity Health

Changing your lifestyle can be challenging. When you need support ensuring a healthy pregnancy, visit a Dignity Health doctor for comprehensive pregnancy care.

Along with your doctor, you can create a pregnancy plan that increases your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy pregnancy.

Dignity Health provides compassionate support for those trying to conceive in Bakersfield, Merced, and Stockton, CA.