I'm Thinking About Starting My Family. How Should I Prepare for Pregnancy?

Choosing to start a family is a magical time worth celebrating and looking forward to. Whether you’re actively trying to have a baby or simply considering taking this significant step, preparing for pregnancy is crucial in ensuring you have a healthy transition into parenthood. 

At Serrano OBGyn in San Antonio, Texas, Christopher Serrano, MD, has helped thousands of women move through pregnancy and into motherhood. With his expert care, you’ll navigate the journey with his compassionate guidance and a personalized plan.

So, if you’re considering starting your family and want to know how to prepare, here’s what you need to understand. 

Lifestyle adjustments 

Before diving into the adventure of starting a family, one of the first considerations is to ensure you’re making any necessary lifestyle adjustments to accommodate a healthier pregnancy. Consider the following changes: 

Maintain a healthy diet 

It’s always important to prioritize your nutrition, but it’s especially essential during this time. Focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to provide crucial nutrients for you and your future little one. 

Stay active 

Don’t underestimate the importance of exercise. It’s vital to incorporate regular activity into your routine to support your overall health and prepare your body for the demands of pregnancy and childbirth. 

Avoiding bad habits 

If you smoke, drink alcohol excessively, or use recreational drugs, now is the time to quit. Bad habits can affect your fertility and increase pregnancy risks. 

Manage stress 

If you’re taking on a lot in your personal life and feeling overwhelmed, try to find healthy ways to manage your stress levels. Some helpful solutions include yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques that help stop stress from interfering with your fertility. 

The importance of prenatal health 

With the help of Dr. Serrano, we prioritize your prenatal care and take proactive steps to optimize your reproductive health and address any potential concerns. Here’s why preconception health is so important: 

Medications 

During prenatal care appointments with Dr. Serrano, he reviews your current medications to ensure they’re safe to continue during pregnancy or if any adjustments may be needed. 

Screen for infections 

Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other infections, such as rubella and varicella, can help identify and treat any potential risks before pregnancy. 

Vaccinations 

Ensure you’re up to date on your vaccinations, including flu shots and the Tdap vaccine. This helps protect you and your baby during pregnancy. 

Genetic screening 

Depending on your family history, Dr. Serrano might recommend genetic screening to see if you have any hereditary conditions that could predispose you to potential risks. 

Emotional preparation 

Although it’s essential to prioritize your physical health first and foremost, it’s also equally important to nurture your emotional well-being when preparing for such a significant milestone in your life. Here’s what you can do: 

Communicate openly

If you have a partner, don’t be afraid to have honest conversations with them about your hopes, fears, and expectations for parenthood. Discuss how you can support each other during the ups and downs of this journey. 

Seek support 

Lean on friends, family, or support groups for guidance and encouragement during this exciting but sometimes overwhelming time. 

Educate yourself

You’ve heard it before, but it’s good advice — take those childbirth classes, read books, and seek online resources to learn about pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care. And if you have any questions along the way, contact Dr. Serrano for guidance. 

Practice self-care 

Don’t neglect your nurturing activities, and take care of yourself along the way. Whether it’s taking long baths, making time for your hobbies, or scheduling some necessary “me time,” it’s essential to prioritize self-care. 

Preparing for pregnancy is such an exciting and transformative process. You can make it more joyful by adjusting to your lifestyle, health, and emotional well-being. In the meantime, Dr. Serrano will guide you through the process every step of the way to help you embrace the adventure. 

If you’re ready to learn more about pregnancy and prenatal care, call us at (210)761-5308 or use our online booking tool to request your appointment today.