Ideally, see your GP a few months before you start trying. It's a chance to check your health, update vaccinations and plan supplements, so you and your baby get the best start.
Your pre-pregnancy checklist
Supplements
- Folic acid: 400 micrograms a day, starting at least one month before pregnancy and continuing for the first three months. It reduces the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Some women need a higher dose, for example with diabetes, a higher body weight, some epilepsy medicines or a family history, so ask your GP.
- Iodine: 150 micrograms a day while trying, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, unless you have a thyroid condition. Check with your GP first.
Vaccinations
- Check you're immune to measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox. These vaccines can't be given during pregnancy, so it's best to check before.
- During pregnancy, flu, whooping cough and RSV vaccines are recommended at the right stages to protect you and your baby.
Health checks
- Make sure your cervical screening is up to date
- Review any medicines, including over-the-counter ones and supplements, as some aren't safe in pregnancy
- Check blood pressure, weight and, if needed, blood tests such as iron and thyroid
- Talk about any long-term conditions such as diabetes, thyroid or mental health
- Reproductive carrier screening for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy and fragile X is available, ideally before pregnancy
Lifestyle
- Stop smoking and vaping, and avoid alcohol
- Aim for a healthy weight and regular activity
- See your dentist
Want to talk it through? Dr Syed sees patients at The Doctors Hope Island, and Runaway Bay Medical & Dental.
Book online Antenatal and family care with Dr Syed →Common questions
When should I start folic acid?
At least one month before trying to conceive, continuing for the first three months of pregnancy. Some women need a higher dose, so ask your GP.
Which vaccines do I need before pregnancy?
Check immunity to measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox before pregnancy. Flu, whooping cough and RSV vaccines are recommended during pregnancy.
What is reproductive carrier screening?
A blood test that checks whether you carry genes for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy and fragile X. It's best done before pregnancy or early in pregnancy.
Further reading: healthdirect Australia (Pregnancy, Birth and Baby) · Jean Hailes for Women's Health
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for advice about your own health. In an emergency, call 000.
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