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

How to get healthy while planning for pregnancy.

Consider your parenting styles and values

Make sure chronic conditions are in check

Get up to date on screenings and vaccinations

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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 by Olivia DeLong.

Medically reviewed by Joanne Perron, MD, MPH.March, 2024

Updated onAugust, 2026

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