Having a baby isn’t a cakewalk. It is much more than it seems. In addition to trying to conceive on the right days, there are several other things a couple must do to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Here is a list of steps that you must take to make sure that your baby is born healthy and happy.
Medical History
Getting tested for diseases like diabetes, thyroid, and hypertension is a must before planning a baby. It is essential to discuss the medication you are already taking that might have an impact on the pregnancy with your doctor. Women should also take special care of their menstrual cycle. An irregular menstrual cycle can lead to complications while conceiving.
Lifestyle Changes
Giving up smoking, drinking and managing stress are the first and foremost steps to ensure a happy pregnancy. Before conceiving, it is important to let go of any added stress factors because pregnancy itself would bring quite a lot of stress.
Vaccination
Getting vaccinated against the coronavirus and other diseases is imperative to have a healthy pregnancy. It is equally important to protect the mother and baby from diseases. Women should make sure they are vaccinated against rubella, measles and mumps as well.
Family history examination
Several diseases can be fatal for the baby even if none of the parents has it but one of them is a carrier. Thalassemia is one such disease. If there is a family history of thalassemia then the couple needs to take necessary steps as precautions. If one or both the parents are carriers of it then they need to get genetic counselling.
Reproductive health problems
To know your safest and most effective options for conception in case you have a gynaecological problem, it is necessary to consult an expert. In women with PCOS, ovarian cysts, fibroid surgeries or pelvis infections that might have blocked their tubes, or prior cancer treatment- a consultation before getting on with the motions is recommended.
Other tests
Haemoglobin, blood sugar, thyroid and prolactin levels also need to be tested before planning a baby. A few diagnostic tests apart from the regular blood tests are important.
