Every woman’s reproductive health is essential, including her preconception health. Preconception health is the state of a woman’s reproductive health before she becomes pregnant. Preconception health care is a crucial step in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. The doctor or health care professional will assess the individual’s unique needs and suggest a course of treatment or follow-up care as needed. In addition, the health care professional may prescribe the best pre-pregnancy vitamins to help ensure that the woman’s body has all the nutrients it needs for a healthy pregnancy.
Before a couple begins trying to conceive, they need to take steps to ensure they are as healthy as possible. Often, this focus is on the woman’s health, but it is essential to remember that the man’s health is just as important. Preconception health for men includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, and getting regular exercise. Additionally, men should avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins, including cigarettes and alcohol.
Preconception Vitamins
You might start paying more attention to your diet and fitness routine when trying to conceive. You might also start thinking about taking a prenatal vitamin. While you can get some of the nutrients, you need from food, a supplement can help fill any gaps. There are plenty of options available on the market, and it can be a bit difficult to know which vitamin is best. The following are some of the best preconception vitamins to take before pregnancy.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fortified food. It’s vital for pregnant women because it helps prevent certain brain and spine birth defects. Good food sources of folic acid include spinach, broccoli, lentils, and fortified cereals.
Iron
Iron is essential for good health and can help prevent problems during pregnancy. Iron helps to transport oxygen throughout the body and is essential for cell growth. You may have heard that you require more iron during pregnancy than usual. This is because your body needs to support the needs of two people. Women need to take an iron supplement when they’re trying to conceive. Lean red meat, chicken, fish, beans, and fortified cereals are good food sources of iron.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is important for pregnant women. It helps your body to absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health. Good food sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, such as tuna and salmon, egg yolks, and fortified milk and cereals. Also, you can get vitamin D from exposure to sunlight.
Preconception Health
The health of your future baby is something to be valued. Women should take care of their health, regardless of whether they plan to have children. The health of a woman before she conceives will affect the life and future prospects of her child. Valuing their health now will have lasting effects that reverberate throughout their lives. By making preconception health a priority, couples can increase their chances of success when trying to conceive.