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Home › Articles › Preparing for Pregnancy › Conception Planning and Organization Goes a Long Way

Conception Planning and Organization Goes a Long Way

12 Things to Think About When Trying to Conceive

By Jacqueline Rupp

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4. Reproductive History
When was your last pap smear? Have you been tested for sexually transmitted diseases recently? Have you had any miscarriages or past problems in pregnancy? Some common and treatable STDs can have serious implications on your fertility and pregnancy health.

You partner's reproductive history should be taken into consideration, as well. There will never be a more important time for dialogue about past and present STD exposure.

5. Occupational Exposures
Did you know that veterinarians have an increased risk of pregnancy complications? Did you know that female workers in the paper manufacturing industry have an increased risk of birth defects? Now is the right time to investigate what your job is exposing you to.

If you find that your occupation is hazardous to you or your future baby's health, you will have time to make a switch to a safer position or employer. Many problems with the fetus happen in the first trimester, so by finding out before you conceive, you will be sure to be safe.

6. Immunizations
Are you updated on your shots? "Immunizations to rubella (German measles) and varicella (chicken pox) have the potential to cause birth defects if you get them while you are pregnant," Dr. Bathgate says.

Dr. Mazzullo agrees that care should be taken with vaccines when you are trying to conceive. "Because they are live vaccines, chicken pox and rubella immunizations should be given at least three months in advance of pregnancy," she says.


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