What should you prepare before pregnancy?

Today's couples all hope that their babies can be healthier and smarter, and this of course requires the couples to be in good health so that they can give birth to a healthy and smart baby. Especially female friends, they should make adequate preparations before getting pregnant, so that the chances of pregnancy will be greater and the baby will be healthier. So, what should they prepare before getting pregnant?

Preparation before pregnancy 1: folic acid supplement

Even if you eat a balanced diet, it's difficult to ensure that you're getting all the nutrients you need. The phenomenon of folic acid deficiency in Chinese women of childbearing age is relatively common, and this should be given full attention. You can buy folic acid supplements (or folic acid tablets) at the drugstore, or you can take a multivitamin designed for pregnancy. But be careful, if it's a multivitamin, to make sure it doesn't contain more than the daily allowance of 0.77 mg (2,565 IU) of retinol equivalents (RAE) of vitamin A, unless it's in the form of beta-carotene, as excessive intake of vitamin A may cause birth defects. If you're not sure which one to take, be sure to consult your doctor first.

Preparation before pregnancy 2: Say goodbye to tobacco, alcohol and drugs

If you smoke or take drugs, stop. Numerous studies have shown that smoking and drugs can cause miscarriage, premature birth and low birth weight. Additionally, studies have shown that smoking may affect fertility and sperm count in men. In fact, even exposure to secondhand smoke can affect your chances of conceiving. Experts recommend that expectant mothers should avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy, so it is best to reduce your alcohol intake before you become pregnant, especially in the last two weeks of your menstrual cycle, in case you are already pregnant at this time.

Preparation before pregnancy 3: Say no to caffeine

Studies have shown that consuming too much caffeine can hinder iron absorption and increase the risk of intrauterine fetal death. So it is best to quit caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and cola. However, you should pay attention to quitting gradually, and don't stop completely at once, so as not to cause headaches. If you are addicted, limit yourself to one drink a day, which is the safe limit recognized by most experts.

Pregnancy is not a trivial matter. Many couples welcome the arrival of this life at the most suitable time and when they are in the best physical condition. Therefore, it is very important to know what to prepare before pregnancy. Not only women need to pay attention, men should also make sure their physical condition is in the best possible condition.