Preconceptional Health

 Preconceptional health refers to your health prior to pregnancy.  With the introduction of birth control, couples are making conscious choices about the “ right” time for them, with respect to childbearing. People now want to make an informed decision. We plan ahead for many events in our lives, such as vacations, marriage, or buying a car. Planning ahead for pregnancy is a fairly new concept, but a very important one.

 Goal of Preconceptional ( before pregnancy) health promotion is to reduce: 1) Still births 2) Birth defects 3) Low birth weight babies ( below 2500g) 4) Premature births ( before 37 weeks)

 When questioned about the birth of their child most couples state their only wish is to have a “ healthy baby” However, most couples only begin to consider their health habits and history once they have discovered that they are pregnant.  Unfortunately, no lifestyle can guarantee a healthy pregnancy, but the following factors may affect your ability to have a healthy child or even conceive.

 Previous reproductive difficulties  Inherited disorders  Physical activity  Social support  Drug abuse  Infections ( can cause sterility or harm the baby)  Smoking  Prescriptions and over the counter drugs  Readiness for parenting  Medical Conditions

 Workplace hazards ( toxins can damage sperm and/or the egg)  Fertility issues  Maternal age  Alcohol use ( no amount is safe during pregnancy  Nutrition ( folic acid deficiency can cause neural tube defects.

 Your recipe for a healthy baby!  A mother’s body requires extra nutrients and energy to meet the demands of expanding blood supply, growth of maternal tissues, developing baby, loss of maternal tissues at birth and preparation for breastfeeding

 Grain Products ( 5-12 servings) Grain products help with the actual growth of the fetus.

 Fruits and Vegetables ( 5-10 servings) Fruits and vegetables aid in the development of the brain and nerves of the fetus.

 Mild Products ( 3-4 servings) Milk products help in the development of the bones.

 Meats and Alternatives ( 2-3 servings) Meat and meat alternatives assist in the development of the muscles and the blood system in the fetus. Eggs and legumes would also fall under this category because of their high protein levels.

 Special nutrients that are essential in pregnancy include:  1) Folic Acid  2) Iron  3) Calcium  4) Vitamin D  Note: Be aware that not all vitamins are considered safe in larger doses during pregnancy