6 Tips for Getting Your Body Ready for a Healthy Pregnancy

You want to be in the healthiest shape possible when considering getting pregnant. Here’s what Board-certified OB/GYN David Kim, MD, PhD, at Yunella Women’s Health in the Mid City West area of Los Angeles, tells his patients.

1. Start exercising regularly

If exercise hasn't been at the top of your priority list, now is the time to start getting regular physical activity. Moderate exercise, walking, golfing, or yoga, isn’t only beneficial for your overall health, but it can also support fertility. 

Moderate exercise helps balance hormones, improving blood flow to reproductive organs, and reducing stress. More isn’t necessarily better, so avoid overdoing it.

2. Maintain a well-balanced diet

If you’re hoping to be eating for two soon, consider how you are eating for one now. Avoid highly processed foods and excessive sweets. Instead, opt for lean proteins, a variety of vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains. These choices supply your body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally.

3. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or obese can affect your ability to become pregnant and increase your risk for complications during pregnancy. That's why it’s best to maintain a healthy weight before getting pregnant. If you're overweight, talk to Dr. Kim about how you can lose weight before pregnancy. 

4. Get a checkup

Visit Dr. Kim for a pre-pregnancy checkup. This enables him to identify and address any health issues before they become severe. When preparing to conceive, it’s essential to understand your baseline health. F

From your blood pressure to your cholesterol, learn where you stand so you can find out what steps to take to ensure that you're in the best possible health for pregnancy.

5. Start taking prenatal vitamins

Dr. Kim recommends starting prenatal vitamins three months before you plan to conceive. 

Prenatal vitamins contain the extra folic acid and calcium needed to support a healthy pregnancy. Foods that contain folic acid include leafy greens, citrus fruits, and legumes. Excellent sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products, tofu, and dark, leafy greens.

6. Ditch bad lifestyle habits

It's time to quit any vices that could not only harm your baby but also make it difficult to get pregnant. This includes smoking, vaping, and using recreational drugs, as these can lower fertility and increase risks like miscarriage, low birth weight, and congenital disabilities. Avoid or significantly limit alcohol consumption and limit caffeine.

Discuss all medications you take with Dr. Kim. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications. 

If you’re planning to get pregnant, call our office at 424-404-8832 or book online to schedule a visit to get off to the best start possible.