Preparing for pregnancy

Are you hoping to welcome a new baby into the family? Here are some tips to help you prepare for pregnancy.

When you and your partner decide that you want to have a baby in your family, leave out any contraception and substances and start trying.  

It is quite common that pregnancy does not necessarily occur in the first few cycles after you have stopped using contraception. Especially after using hormonal contraception, you and your partner may have to try for several months, sometimes up to a year.

The food recommendations for people trying to get pregnant are the same as for other people: eat a healthy and diverse diet. However, there are a few things to bear in mind:

  • Start taking a regular folic acid supplement immediately or even a couple of months before you stop using contraception.
  • Avoid alcohol and stop smoking tobacco, preferably as soon as you start trying to get pregnant.

Do I need medical testing while trying to have a baby?

If you are in good health, you do not need a medical check-up or laboratory tests to prepare for pregnancy.

If you have an underlying medical condition or are taking medication, you should discuss your hopes for pregnancy with your doctor at your medical check-up. Some conditions require a change in medication or special monitoring during pregnancy. Your treatment provider will be able to provide the best advice for you concerning monitoring and any changes.

Read more about preparing for pregnancy on the HUS website(Link leads to external service)