Preparing your body for pregnancy is an important step in the maternity process that can allow you to take control of your health. Many prospective mothers choose to focus on what happens after conception, but the time before it is just as critical. With the right preparation you can not only bolster your fertility, but also the health of your pregnancy and future child.
So, exactly how do you prepare for pregnancy? There are a variety of paths to take both mentally and physically, but it all boils down to providing your body with the right tools to have a safe pregnancy. Sometimes, pregnancy preparation will require a wholesale lifestyle change, but it can also be as simple as taking a prenatal multivitamin. This article is brought to you by Elevit.
Here, we outline five ways you can prepare your body for pregnancy, from dietary adjustments to stress management techniques. By following these steps, you can approach this exciting chapter in your life with confidence, knowing that you’ve laid the groundwork for a healthy and fulfilling pregnancy.
1. Choose the right supplement
When you’re planning on conceiving, there are some obvious changes you’ll need to make like avoiding tobacco and alcohol, but one of the lesser known changes that can be hugely beneficial is taking a prenatal multivitamin. This is because a supplement like Elevit’s prenatal multivitamin is scientifically formulated with 19 essential vitamins and minerals and can provide you with everything needed to support a healthy pregnancy.
Elevit’s prenatal vitamin is Australia’s most trusted pregnancy vitamin and has been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube defects* because no other prenatal multivitamin contains more folic acid than Elevit Pre-conception & Pregnancy
Elevit Pre-conception & Pregnancy also contains iron to support babies’ healthy growth and development, as well as iodine to support brain development
*Folic acid taken at least one month prior to and during pregnancy may reduce the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. If you have had a baby with a neural tube defect/spina bifida, seek specific medical advice.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
2. Eat a balanced diet
One of the most important steps in preparing your body for pregnancy is adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Proper nutrition not only supports fertility but also helps build a strong foundation for the development of your baby. A well-rounded diet will ensure your body has the essential vitamins, minerals and energy it needs to nurture new life while maintaining your own health.
Focus on incorporating a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide vital nutrients like folic acid, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
In addition to these critical nutrients, iron and calcium are vital for your body to support the increased blood volume during pregnancy and to build strong bones for both you and your baby. Incorporating iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach, and legumes, along with calcium-rich foods such as dairy, almonds and leafy greens, ensures that your body is well-prepared for the demands of pregnancy.
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3. Move your body
Regular exercise is another key factor in preparing your body for pregnancy. Staying active before conception boosts fertility and primes your body to handle the physical demands of pregnancy.
By partaking in cardiovascular exercises like walking, swimming and cycling, you can improve your heart health and circulation, helping your body handle the increased blood flow it will experience during pregnancy. Strength training, especially for the core and pelvic floor, also reduces back pain and prepares your body for labour and recovery.
Flexibility exercises like yoga or Pilates enhance balance and will help your body adjust to the changes that occur as pregnancy progresses. There’s also the mental benefit that exercising provides, helping to reduce stress, which is important for fertility.
4. Get you partner on board, too
Preparing for pregnancy isn’t just about your own health. Getting your partner on board is equally important, as a supportive, engaged partner can make the whole process smoother. First, encourage your partner to adopt healthier habits like eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, which can boost their fertility. Improving sperm health through a male prenatal, like Menevit, proper nutrition, regular physical activity and limiting alcohol and tobacco use also plays a key role in conception.
Emotional support is another key factor. Open communication and sharing the experience can help reduce stress and foster a sense of partnership. Attending doctor’s appointments, discussing parenting goals and making lifestyle changes together can strengthen your bond and ensure you’re both on the same page.
5. Go clean
Lastly, reducing stress and cutting out harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco are essential steps in preparing your body for pregnancy. Stress can negatively affect fertility by disrupting hormone levels, so finding ways to manage it is crucial. Try practising mindfulness, yoga or meditation to help you stay centred and calm as you prepare for this life change. Building a healthy support system and setting realistic expectations can also alleviate stress.
Limiting or eliminating alcohol and quitting tobacco are also important, even before you’ve conceived. Alcohol can interfere with conception and increase the risk of birth defects, while tobacco use can harm fertility and lead to pregnancy complications. By going clean and adopting a healthier lifestyle, you boost your chances of conceiving.
This article is brought to you by Elevit and Menevit.
This article provides general information around supplements only. For customised medical support, please seek the advice of your GP or healthcare professional.
