Steps To Planning Your Pregnancy Perfectly

In old world traditions, it is believed that having a child is a blessing. Therefore planning pregnancy is impossible. Even today, getting pregnant is often something that happens by chance and then the couple are left to do all the necessary planning. There is nothing wrong with planning a pregnancy after you conceive. There is still plenty of time for you to plan everything well.

However, ideally the planning should happen pre-conception so that everything goes on smoothly. A lot of pregnancy risks can be eliminated with cautious planning on your part. Pre-conception pregnancy planning allows you to get a check on your health. You must know if your body is ready for a pregnancy. These days, a lot of health conditions go undetected until one tries to conceive.

Instead of getting pregnant with dangerous health conditions for yourself and your child, it is better to plan your pregnancy well. Besides your pregnancy planning must also include non-medical areas like career, finances and travel.

Here are some steps to follow for planning your pregnancy perfectly.

A Basic Health Check-up

A basic health check up would include your blood count, urine culture and some hormonal tests. This will tell if your general health is good enough to support a pregnancy. For example, if you are anaemic, then you should first increase you haemoglobin count.

Chronic Diseases

If you have any chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure or thyroid then your pregnancy can be risky. You should first consult with a specialist before trying to conceive.

History Of Miscarriages/Abortions

If you had any history of previous pregnancies that ended in miscarriage or abortions, then that too should be discussed with your doctor before you conceive. Abortions and miscarriages can increase chances of ectopic pregnancies.

Genetic Disorders

If there is any mental illness or genetic disorders like the Down's syndrome in your family then that must be brought to the notice of the doctor. Gene karyotyping is an affordable process these days that can tell you if you are likely to pass on genetic disorders to your child.

Can You Afford A Baby?

The question is whether you can afford the baby as comfortably as you want to. This would include future expenses like schooling and healthcare for the baby.

What About Multiples?

Most often we are prepared only for one baby when we try to conceive. But what if you conceive multiples? Are you still ready for this pregnancy?

Are You Expecting A Promotion?

The harsh reality is that pregnant women face unjust treatment at their workplace. So if you are expecting an important promotion or increment, then wait it out. You might be passed over if you are pregnant.

How Much Maternity Leave Will You Get?

You need to find out how much maternity leave your organisation can offer. The standard rule is 3 months paid and 3 months of unpaid leave. However, if your company does not abide by that rule, you must think of changing your job before you get pregnant.

Travel During Pregnancy

It is not safe for you to travel in two-wheelers or three-wheelers when you are pregnant. You need to arrange a safe mode of transport or live very close to your office during your pregnancy.

Does Your Insurance Cover Pregnancy?

Most insurance policies do not cover the total costs of pregnancy. What you get instead is a fixed amount. The total cost of your pregnancy may be much more than the amount you receive from insurance. You need to check with your insurance to see how covered you are.