If you’re thinking of getting pregnant, chances are you’ve got some questions. Whether you’re planning to start trying to conceive in the near future or have already started trying, speaking to one of our providers can be beneficial.

There are several important factors that play a role in your getting pregnant. Meeting with a provider will allow you the opportunity to go over these factors with them, as well as the chance to ask any questions you may have about getting pregnant.

Your Medical History

Medical conditions, existing or past, may affect pregnancy, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The nurse practitioner will need to know what conditions you have and whether or not they are under control and being properly treated before you conceive. You should also let them know whether or not you’ve had any other pregnancies, including any miscarriages and terminated pregnancies. You may require a consult with a physician to discuss how any pre-existing conditions will need to be monitored during pregnancy.

Medications

Certain medications may put your pregnancy at risk and potentially cause birth defects. When you make an appointment with one of our nurse practitioners, be sure to bring along any medications that you may be taking, including over the counter and herbal and dietary supplements. If needed, you may book a consultation with one of our physicians to talk about which medications you need to continue taking and which ones you should stop.

Lifestyle

Some lifestyle behaviors may affect your ability to have a healthy pregnancy, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and recreational drug use. Your nurse practitioner can advise you on how to stop these behaviours and direct you to support programs and other resources that may help. You should also take this opportunity to talk about any abuse or stress you may be experiencing.

Diet

Your diet can impact your ability to get pregnant, as well as your health and your baby’s health once you conceive. Learning to eat well is an important part of getting pregnant. The nurse practitioner can counsel you on nutrition and prenatal vitamins, including folic acid, to improve your chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy.

Weight

Your weight, whether you’re overweight or underweight, can impact your ability to get pregnant and your baby’s health. During your appointment the nurse practitioner will take your weight and can counsel you on how your weight may impact your ability to conceive and what you can do to achieve and maintain a healthy weight safely.

Questions to Ask

Once you’ve called our office or booked an appointment online, you’ll want to come up with a list of questions to ask during the appointment. You can use the following list to give you an idea of some questions that are worth asking, if applicable to you:

• How long should I stop taking birth control before trying to conceive?
• How long do we try to conceive before getting concerned?
• Are there tests you can do to figure out why I haven’t been able to conceive?
• How can I increase my chances of getting pregnant?
• Is there anything I should know about my family’s medical history before getting pregnant?
• How will my medical conditions affect my chances of getting pregnant?
• When is the best time to try to conceive?
• Do I need any blood tests or gynecological exams before trying to get pregnant?
• Are there any supplements or vitamins I should be taking?
• Do I need any vaccines before getting pregnant?
• Should I start/continue to exercise while trying to get pregnant?