Are you ready to get pregnant?
Before you get pregnant it is important to make sure that
you are truly prepared. Preconception care is an important aspect of helping to create a healthy pregnancy. Schedule an appointment with your OBGYN to
get a check up and to ask any questions you may have about pregnancy and childbirth. It is recommended that women
of child bearing age take folic acid supplements, preferably from a prenatal
vitamin. If you have not been eating
well, change your diet to a more healthful one.
Make sure you are not overweight or underweight, as these can both
impede a pregnancy. Cut out alcohol and smoking as these habits are not only bad for your health but dangerous for a
pregnancy and fetus. If you haven't done
so already, you and your partner should discuss the possibility of going for genetic screening testing to rule out the possibility of inherited genetic
diseases that could be passed on to your baby.
Are you ready for a baby?
Make sure that you are ready to have a baby. While a baby brings joy and love into this world, remember that she comes along with a lot of responsibility. Important factors to consider before having a baby are:
Financial stability: Babies are expensive! The crib, furniture, car seat, diapers, layette, bottles and all the paraphernalia that comes along with a new baby really add up. When figuring out the cost of these items, remember that cribs and car seats can be rented and clothes can be borrowed.
Emotional stability: Are you ready to give of yourself to another person? Are you emotionally in a place where you can handle the responsibility that comes with having a baby?
Lifestyle changes: Think about how comfortable you are with a lifestyle change. A baby adds a new person into your family, and the transition from a twosome to a threesome is a big one. Will your work allow for flexibility? Do you plan on continuing to work? Is a baby something both you and your partner want? If you are a single parent, will you be able to get support and help from family or friends?
You've decided to get pregnant?
Once you've decided that you're ready, enjoy this special time in your life. Read up on pregnancy and childbirth. The more prepared and educated you are, the better!
We are unable to provide answers to medically related questions or other medical advice via e-mail. Our physicians look forward to addressing your medical needs in person. To schedule an appointment or for more information about this practice as well as the programs and treatments they offer, please complete the form below. Be sure to include a valid telephone number and e-mail address so that one of our Patient Advocate may contact you directly. |
