8. Establish a good exercise and yoga routines
Developing an exercise routine before you conceive can help your body handle the changes it will go through during pregnancy and physically prepare you for labour and delivery.
Not only does exercise give you more energy and reduce your stress, but it also helps you sleep better which are all important benefits when you’re trying to conceive.
Yoga has several benefits for your fertility too. Taking on a regular yoga practice may help with your emotions and anxiety related to the conception process. You’ll also strengthen and stretch your body in preparation for pregnancy.
Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate activity for a total of 150 minutes each week.
9. Get a handle on your stress
Stress can cause havoc on your body by boosting cortisol levels, which can suppress ovulation and decrease sperm count and sex drive. Stress also tightens your body, which can stagnate energy and constrict blood flow. There are certain activities you can do to help you manage your stress:
Practice yoga, Meditate, Breathing exercises, Visualization, Massage, Relax in nature, Sleep, Exercise, Acupuncture, Read and Take a relaxing bath.
10. Reach and maintain a healthy weight
Being at a healthy body weight also supports a healthier pregnancy. If you’re underweight or overweight, you may have a harder time becoming pregnant.
Some underweight people, especially those with eating disorders, like anorexia or bulimia, may not ovulate or may have irregular periods.
Obesity, too, can affect your menstrual cycle, including the quality of your eggs. And people who are overweight are at higher risk for Miscarriage, Chronic hypertension, Gestational diabetes and Preeclampsia.
The key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight isn’t about short-term dietary changes. It’s about a lifestyle that includes healthy eating and regular physical activity.
11. Cut back on caffeine
Consuming large amounts of caffeine may cause women to have a harder time becoming pregnant. Try to limit yourself to no more than two cups of coffee per day both when you’re trying to conceive and throughout your pregnancy as it can increase the risk of miscarriage.
12. Stop Drinking Alcohol, Smoking and using certain drugs
Smoking, drinking alcohol and using certain drugs can cause many problems during pregnancy for a woman and her baby; such as premature birth, birth defects, and infant death.
13. Limit Toxin exposure
Avoid harmful chemicals, environmental contaminants and other toxic substances. These substances can make it more difficult to get pregnant, hurting the reproductive systems of men and women. High amounts of toxic exposure can be very dangerous for a developing baby.
Here are a few other things you can start doing today to keep yourself free from these toxins:
- Eat organic foods
- Choose fresh foods over canned, which may contain BPA
- Stock up on fragrance-free laundry detergents
- Choosing chemical-free home and personal care products
14. Have a Dental check up – Taking good care of your teeth and gums before you become pregnant can help ward off pregnancy gingivitis and cavities when you’re expecting.
15. Visit your doctor and get a full check-up.
If you’ve been trying for six months to a year with no success, it may be time to see a doctor. This will help your medical practitioner rule out any underlying condition(s) and help you have a health baseline for future pregnancy plans.
You can also expect to have a pelvic exam and Pap smear, and be tested for STDs if you’re at risk.
Mindful Momma 