Thinking About Getting Pregnant?

Planning for a pregnancy is an exciting time – and you want to give your baby a great head-start.

Getting your health in check up to a year prior to trying to get pregnant can influence your well being and your baby’s health. We are available to discuss any questions you may have during this important time. Topics to consider include…

Birth control
Medical problems/concerns
Family histories
Genetics
Medications and vitamins
Diet, weight, exercise,
Alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and caffeine use
Environmental concerns
Vaccinations (Access resources from the CDC including vaccination information for women who are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant).

Access an in-depth discussion of pre-conception planning, published by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Aside from the medical approach to pre-conception planning, considering lifestyle changes is also important.

Be open with your partner about your expectations, fears, etc.
Think about how you will handle childcare arrangements once the baby is born.
Determine if you need to make adjustments to your finances to prepare for a child.
Ask about your employer’s policy on bonding and medical leave and find out if disability benefits are available to you. Look into Paid Family Medical Leave through your state of residence. (For example, Massachusetts has a Paid Family Medical Leave program for eligible workers).
Learn about your medical insurance plan including important information about pregnancy and birth coverage, and your anticipated out of pocket costs for pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care such as deductibles, etc.
Discuss your anticipations for parenthood.
Most of all, enjoy this amazing time!