Chapter 1 – Pre-conception: What you need to know 2

No smoking & no alcohol 

No negotiation here.  

Consume 400 to 800 micrograms (400 to 800 mcg or 0.4 to 0.8 mg) of folic acid daily. 

You should speak to your doctor about this. He/she will be able to guide you in this matter. Folic acid reduces the risk of birth defects related to the spine and brain. 

 Get your other health problems under control 

If you’re diabetic, obese, have asthma, etc. you should get all these problems under control first before getting pregnant. All these health issues may cause pregnancy complications.

Get fit and healthy 

Exercise more. Build up your strength and stamina. When you’re pregnant, it will be easier on your body if you’re strong and healthy. 

Ask your partner to play an active role 

If your partner smokes or engages in detrimental activities, they should try and quit for the sake of the baby. 

At the very least, if they can’t quit, they shouldn’t smoke around you or tempt you by consuming alcohol around you.