Pregnancy: preparing for pregnancy
If you are trying to get pregnant, you should see your doctor to discuss any regular medications you are taking, and whether or not they are safe to take throughout your pregnancy.
You should also ask your doctor if you might need additional nutritional supplements to help keep you healthy while you are trying to get pregnant and throughout your pregnancy.
Nutrition during pregnancy
A well balanced diet can provide a pregnant woman with most of the nutrients needed during pregnancy, but some supplements may be necessary.
The Department of Health advises women to take extra folic acid for at least a month before getting pregnant and for the first 3 months of pregnancy to help with the baby’s development and to help prevent conditions such as spina bifida.
You can buy folic acid supplements from your local pharmacy, but it's advisable to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you take any supplements.
Some women may need supplements of calcium, iron and zinc to keep both mother and baby in good health during the pregnancy. Eating calcium-rich foods such as dairy products helps increase calcium intake.
Rubella
Some women who wish to start a family may also need a rubella (German measles) vaccination prior to becoming pregnant. If a mother is not protected from German measles and comes into contact with the virus while pregnant, the baby’s healthy development may be at risk.
Harmful substances
Women who are pregnant or planning to conceive should abstain from drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes or marijuana, and minimise caffeine intake from coffee, tea and cola drinks. All these substances could affect the healthy development of the baby.
When should you seek medical advice?
You should seek medical advice if:
- you have missed a period but have had a negative pregnancy test;
- you have had a positive pregnancy test; or
- you have been having abdominal pain or period problems such as heavy bleeding, no period or period pain.
Last Reviewed: 01 May 2002
