Before you start trying...

Before you start trying

A pre-conception check-up isn't necessary for everyone, but see your GP if you want to discuss anything or have been putting off seeking treatment for a problem. You might want to confirm that your blood pressure is normal and you don't have a hidden vaginal infection such as chlamydia. Some women like to get tetanus jabs up to date, or have a blood test to detect anaemia and immunity to infections such as toxoplasmosis or rubella that could harm a developing foetus.

It is recommended that you take a folic acid supplement for three months before and three months after you conceive.

If you use hormone-based contraception such as the Pill you may want to use a barrier method for about three months before trying to conceive. This will allow your natural cycle to re-establish and make dating a pregnancy easier. After you stop using a hormone based contraceptive such as the Pill, your vitamin and mineral levels can take about three months to return to normal.

The amount of folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc in your blood is reduced, for example, while iron and copper levels are raised. There's no direct evidence that this harms a developing fetus, but it may reduce your fertility and there's concern that it might predispose a baby to things like high blood pressure or diabetes later in life. If you're already pregnant this isn't worth worrying about - if not you may want to bear it in mind.

Looking ahead

There's growing evidence that a baby's health in later life is linked to the health of his mother both during his childhood and around the time of conception.

Most women won't need a major pre-conceptual care campaign, but you're likely to suffer fewer discomforts during pregnancy if your health is at its best. Forward planning helps to reduce the risk of miscarriage and it's easier to adjust your weight or treat a minor disorder when you're not pregnant.

Life is far from perfect, however. If you conceive unexpectedly but are well nourished and generally healthy, the risks to your baby are minimal. You'll have reserves to draw on while your baby's organs are forming. Your body allows a margin for error, providing the next best substitute if the nutrient it needs is not available and protecting your baby via your immune system.

It's better to do what you can, such as giving up smoking now, than to waste time worrying about things you failed to do in the past.

Pre-conception checklist

• Get any chronic illness stabilised and discuss any regular medication you use with your GP before trying to conceive. If you have a persistent infection, have that treated too.
• Ask your GP for a blood test to check you have immunity to rubella (German measles).
• Tackle a fitness or weight problem and improve your diet if necessary.
• Take a folic acid supplement, preferably for three months before and three months after you conceive.
• If you're concerned about a drinking, drug or smoking habit, tackle it now.