When Having a Baby

Trying to conceive is a process that requires patience. Understanding your body before pregnancy, knowing your ovulation periods, and being mentally and physically prepared for pregnancy will help you have a healthy and happy pregnancy.

From the moment you start planning to have a baby, we recommend that you consult a doctor immediately. If you are already pregnant, you should see your doctor for the health of both you and your baby. The early days of your pregnancy are crucial for the development of your baby’s organs, and even the smallest changes in your life can have significant effects on this development. For instance, folic acid deficiency can lead to major congenital disorders. Therefore, your doctor needs to evaluate the health of both you and your baby. Here are some recommendations you should start right away.

If you are trying to conceive, smoking can reduce your fertility. If you are pregnant, smoking increases the risk of miscarriage and harms your baby's healthy development. Alcohol consumption can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, stillbirth, and other serious problems.

You need to take folic acid to reduce serious congenital disorders. Folic acid is a B-vitamin derivative that is abundant in fresh fruits and green vegetables. A daily intake of 400 micrograms of folic acid supplementation can prevent anomalies such as neural tube defects. These defects can already be formed by the time you realize you are pregnant. Therefore, if you are planning to conceive, start taking folic acid supplements immediately. If you suspect you might be pregnant, we recommend you start right away.

Going through a complete health check-up is very important for both your health and your baby's. Conditions such as high blood pressure, epilepsy, and diabetes can negatively affect your pregnancy.

Inform your doctor about all the illnesses you have had in the past. For example, rubella during pregnancy can lead to congenital disorders. If you have not had this disease, your doctor will recommend vaccination.

If you are taking medication, talk to your doctor about the drugs you are using. Some medications may affect you or your baby, and it may be necessary to stop or change these medications.

If you or someone in your family has a genetic disease, genetic counseling may be necessary as this can affect your baby. Consult your doctor on how to reach your ideal weight. Overweight women may be at risk for diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy, while underweight women may have babies with low birth weight. You can achieve your ideal weight with the help of a dietitian.

Stay away from toxic substances, chemicals, or radiation at home or at work.
These substances can affect your fertility and lead to unwanted outcomes during pregnancy.

Stress, long working hours, physical fatigue, and standing for long periods can negatively impact your fertility and pregnancy. Make time for activities that help you relax.

If you have used birth control pills in the past, remember that your body may need some time to return to normal.