I am often asked by patients “what can I do to help become better prepared for pregnancy and improve my chances”? Once a woman and her partner have decided to attempt pregnancy, there are several lifestyle changes to be considered and screening laboratory tests to help ensure the best chances for a healthy and successful pregnancy.
You should discuss with your Healthcare provider all current prescription and OTC medications, supplements and Herbal compounds that you use.
The woman should try to optimize her health and certainly any chronic conditions should be treated with an eye towards having the healthiest pregnancy. Before attempting pregnancy, discuss any medical conditions or concerns with your Healthcare provider.
Good Nutrition and regular exercise are essential for good preconceptional health.
A multivitamin supplement, containing at least 400 micrograms of Folic Acid, should be started by all women prior to attempting pregnancy.
Women should try to improve their diets and lifestyles by reducing caffeine consumption and eliminating alcohol intake and smoking.
Avoid exposure to pesticides, paints and solvents.
The FDA advises that women who may become pregnant should avoid eating shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish due to high levels of mercury in these fish.
Optimal body mass index (BMI) of 18-25 is ideal. There is good medical evidence that as BMI rises above this range, (particularly over 35) fertility treatment is less successful and pregnancies have more complications. Women with a low BMI (< 15) are at increased risk for ovulation disorders. Men with a BMI greater than 35 may have reduced sperm count and motility. You may calculate your BMI at: http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi.
The risks of developing Toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, which can likewise affect a developing baby, can be minimized by eliminating the handling of cat litter and by avoiding raw meat or fish.
Immunity (protection against) Rubella (German measles) and Varicella (Chicken Pox) can be determined by a simple blood test. If the Woman is not immune (protected), she should ideally receive immunization before attempting pregnancy.
The Woman and her partner should also explore their genetic background and possibly have screening tests for certain genetic disorders such as Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell and other inherited anemias and Tay - Sachs disease. At RSC, we have each Patient obtain a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and hemoglobin Electrophoresis to screen for an inherited anemia or abnormal red blood cell production. Screening for Cystic Fibrosis carrier state is highly recommended. In addition, other genetic tests may be advised based on the patient’s ethnic background and family history.
Men should also eliminate smoking and limit alcohol intake to less than 4 alcoholic beverages weekly. Exposure to heat including Hot Tubs, Saunas, or Laptop computers should be avoided.
Meet with your Healthcare provider before attempting pregnancy. Taking the time to plan for pregnancy, obtaining the suggested screening tests in advance and living a healthy life-style may improve your chances of successful conception and give you the best possible start once you are pregnant.
Dr. Carmelo Sgarlata is a leading Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility specialist at the Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years of experience and well over 1,000 babies born through his guidance, Dr. Sgarlata has become well known in the community where he lives and practices. His areas of special interest include Operative Laproscopy and Hysteroscopy, Ovulation disorders including diminished ovarian reserve and recurrent pregnancy loss.
