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Published in Pregnancy on Dec 11th 2024

Planning for Pregnancy in the New Year? Steps to Take Now

Do you want to get pregnant in the new year? If so, there are lifestyle changes you can start implementing now to enhance your chances of conception and ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy and birth, such as:

1. Taking folic acid and other supplements

It’s important to start taking a prenatal vitamin and folic acid prior to conception. Ensuring that your body has enough folic acid at least one month prior to and throughout your pregnancy can help reduce the risk of major birth defects in the developing baby's brain and spine (neural tube defects).

2. Avoiding toxic substances

If you want to conceive in the new year, now is the time to stop drinking alcohol, smoking, and using certain drugs. You should also try to avoid harmful chemicals, environmental contaminants, and other toxic substances like fertilizer and bug spray.

3. Tracking your menstrual cycle

Monitoring your menstrual cycle is essential for successful conception. Knowing your ovulation period allows you to time having intercourse during the most fertile days of your cycle.

4. Prioritizing your mental health

The conception process can sometimes feel overwhelming and stressful, especially if pregnancy doesn't occur as quickly as you hoped. These feelings are completely normal, but it's essential to have strategies for managing them in advance. Consider seeking support from a counselor, sharing your thoughts with friends and family, and focusing on self-care activities like meditation or reading.

5. Communicating with your partner

Effective communication with your partner is crucial during conception and pregnancy. Ensure that your family planning goals align and that both of you are on the same page and ready to fully support one another.

6. Talking to a gynecologist

Before getting pregnant, it’s helpful to talk to your gynecologist about your health history and any concerns you may have about conceiving. Not only can they answer your questions, but they can also give customized advice on how to approach conception that will best increase your chances of pregnancy success.

Schedule an Appointment with an OBGYN Today

If you want to conceive in the new year, there are steps you can take now to prepare. At Pacific Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, your own obstetrician will see you at almost every visit, so that we can work together to help achieve your birth goals. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.