Facts you should know about pregnancy planning
- Many women choose to start pregnancy planning prior to conception so that they may minimize possible toxic exposures to the fetus.
- Women or couples with an increased risk or family history of genetic (inherited) diseases may undergo genetic counseling as a step in pregnancy planning.
- For the best outcomes, chronic medical conditions should be treated and under good control prior to attempting pregnancy.
- Smoking cessation and avoiding alcohol or illicit drug use strongly improve a woman’s chances of having a healthy pregnancy and baby.
- The amount of weight that a woman should gain during pregnancy depends partially on her pre-pregnancy weight.
- As soon as a woman stops using birth control, she is able to become pregnant. Some long-term hormonal contraceptives may require a period of time for the hormonal effects to wear off.
- Women who are planning to become pregnant should take folic acid supplements to reduce the likelihood of neural tube defects in the fetus.
- Some types of fish may be high in mercury or other toxins and are not recommended for pregnant women.
- Exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle and is recommended for most pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies.
- It is important to review all medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), with your health-care professional if you are planning to become pregnant.
- Sexual activity is safe for most pregnant women.
- Certain infections, including Zika virus, rubella, toxoplasmosis, and parvovirus B19 can pose risks for the fetus.
- Women who do not have immunity to the rubella virus should be vaccinated before trying to conceive.
- Women who have been infected with the HIV or hepatitis B viruses can receive medications during pregnancy or at delivery to reduce the likelihood of transmitting these infections to their newborn.
