Coming to the realization that you now want to have a baby is not enough. You need to also consider other facets after deciding to want to have a baby, as bringing another being into the world is a momentous decision.
Notwithstanding the obvious concerns about parenting roles and the finances, women also need to be considerate about their health.
They must visit their Gynecologist in Lahore before getting onto the task of making a baby. Knowing if there is some disease that can hamper your chances, is your health okay, how should you go about it is important for the prospective mother to discuss with her doctor.
Preconception visit: What to ask?
At your preconception visit, you should be clear about a few things. Therefore, do posit the following queries to your doctor at these visits:
How to go about my birth control pill?
If you have not been using any form of hormonal birth control, you need not worry. However, women who have devices like IUDs need to first schedule their removal at the doctor’s office.
Likewise, if you have been taking pills, using injections or have a ring or patch, your doctor will get you off these devices. After you stop taking the pill, you might have to wait for months even for your cycle to regulate. During this time, it can be tricky to get pregnant. However, some women do manage to beat the odds. Just know that this process can take time.
How should I increase my chances of conceiving?
If everything is alright with the bodies, the only thing left then is chance. To increase the chance of sperm fertilizing the egg, make sure you capitalize on the fertility window by having sex before and during ovulation.
To predict when you ovulate, you can use an application, track your temperature, observe your cervical plug, and use ovulation kits.
What medicines can get in the way of fertility?
That is entirely contingent on the medication you are taking. Medicines for conditions like epilepsy, hypertension can lower the chance of conceiving.
Also, if you are actively trying for a baby, you should be careful about your medicine intake. Certain drugs can harm the baby, and therefore if you have conditions that make you predisposed to using prescription or OTC medication, you should inform your gynecologist about it and follow their advice then.
Should I take supplements?
Women who want to have a baby should take folic acid supplements around 3-6 months before they start to try for a baby. Folic acid deficiency has been linked with neurological defects, so do not be careless about these supplements.
If you eat a well-balanced diet, chances are you are good to go and do not require vitamins. However, if your doctor suspects nutrient deficiency of some sort, they might then give you supplements.
What’s the timeline for conceiving?
There is nothing set in stone. Some couples get pregnant immediately, others need time. If you are young, then you should consult a fertility expert if you have not managed to get pregnant after a year of trying. For women over the age of 35, consulting an expert is important after 6 months of trying.
Is my body alone responsible for conceiving?
It takes two to tango and make a baby. If you are having trouble conceiving, it might be due to either or both parties. Sperm quantity, motility, shape are some of the factors that can hamper fertility. So, you should both get your respective tests done.
What are the conditions that can hamper fertility?
Some women do not have a regular cycle, like those suffering from PCOS. Similarly, endometriosis, thyroid conditions amongst other health problems can affect your fertility. You should then work with the Best Gynecologist in Karachi on managing these factors to improve your chances of conceiving.
