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A Little Planning Goes
a Long Way

12 Things to Think About When Trying to Conceive

By Jacqueline Rupp

If you are traveling to an underdeveloped nation it is important to be vaccinated for hepatitis A and B. If you work in health care, you should also be immunized for hepatitis B," Dr. Bathgate says. These immunizations are also important if you have multiple sexual partners or a partner who may not be monogamous. Aside from the immunizations, you should let your doctor know about your travel history, especially if you have recently traveled to an underdeveloped country.

Eating healthily should be a habit by the time you conceive. Folic acid is a key supplement to reduce the risk of birth defects. In general, a prenatal, over-the-counter vitamin supplement will supply the right balance of extra nutrients necessary for a healthy conception. However, it is best to talk to your doctor about any deficiencies you might need to address.

Although most alternative medicines are not a problem, there have been no regulations or testing upon them. As a result, there is no statistical information about warnings or side effects. For example, some herbs promote uterine cramping and can promote the onset of contractions. According to Dr. Mazzullo, it is probably a good idea to refrain from using any alternative medicines for a few months before trying to conceive.

"Sometimes one partner is ready and one is not," Dr. Mazzullo says. "It is important to remember that pregnancy is a relationship stretcher, not a relationship builder." She says not to rush intoa pregnancy, but to thoughtfully and realistically assess your current relationship and lifestyle. Ask yourself the important questions about time management, finances, roles and responsibilities. Dr. Mazzullo says that couples should wait at least six months prior to trying to conceive to allow for a full and open dialogue about this life-changing decision.

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