General wellnessPregnancy & parentingWomen's health

Preparing for baby: 12 things to do before trying to conceive

How to get healthy while planning for pregnancy.

Jan, 2026
LearnPregnancyPreparing for baby: 12 things to do before trying to conceive
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Consider your parenting styles and values
Think about your finances and career
Don't ignore the risks
Quit smoking
Cut back on alcohol
Reduce your caffeine intake
Manage your weight and exercise plan
Start taking a prenatal supplement
Make sure chronic conditions are in check
Prepare for your body to change
Get up to date on screenings and vaccinations
Consider taking a "babymoon"

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If you’re trying to conceive, you may have already considered some lifestyle adjustments that you’ll have to make after the baby arrives. But even before the nine month journey begins, there are some important steps that parents-to-be should make to help ensure they achieve the best possible outcome on delivery day.

While there are no guarantees (some things are simply out of your control), there are ways to optimize fertility—aside from attempting to time sex with ovulation. Making certain dietary and lifestyle changes and having some important conversations can help expecting parents physically and mentally prepare for pregnancy and beyond.

Written byOlivia DeLong.
Medically reviewed byJoanne Perron, MD.March, 2024

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