Preconception diet
A varied, balanced diet is
key to good reproductive health. Certain foods in particular contain
essential vitamins and minerals that are thought to benefit eggs and
sperm and the health of the future embryo. These include foods rich in
vitamins A, B, C, and E, folic acid, calcium, omega-3 and omega-6
essential fatty acids, zinc, and selenium.
Dark green leafy vegetables contain minerals and vitamins.
Legumes are a source of folic acid.
Fish contains essential fatty acids.
Eggs provide zinc, which boosts sperm production.
Signs of ovulation
Ovulation occurs when an
egg, or ovum, is released from the ovary. To become pregnant, sperm must
meet and fertilize an egg and the resulting embryo must implant in the
uterine wall. There are signs to look for that indicate ovulation:
A change in your basal body temperature can indicate ovulation.
Just after ovulation, your temperature rises between 0.5 and 1.6° F (0.3
and 0.9° C).
A change in cervical mucus from being sparse or thick and opaque to being clear, jellylike, and stringy.
A rise in your temperature.
Mid-cycle or ovulatory bleeding thought to result from the sudden drop in estrogen that occurs at ovulation.
Localized pain.
Swelling of the vulva before ovulation, especially on the side that you ovulate.
Stopping contraception Ready for conception
When to stop
contraception before conceiving is fairly straightforward, although for
some methods a degree of planning is required.
Barrier methods, such as the diaphragm and condom, can be stopped immediately once you decide to start trying.
If you have an IUD, you will need to make an appointment to have it removed; you can start trying right away after this.
If you are on oral contraception, finish the package before stopping. Your cycle may take time to settle, although some women conceive as soon as they stop.
NOTE
Preparing your body for a future pregnancy will improve your chances of a healthy outcome for you and your baby
NOTE
Honestly assessing your lifestyle can motivate you to make the changes necessary for a healthy pregnancy
NOTE
Prepare mentally by having faith in your ability to conceive and each day visualizing your forthcoming pregnancy
