Get a Full Checkup
Visit your gynecologist and your family doctor and discuss your plans to conceive.
Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions and family medical history with your physician.
Review Medications; if necessary cease taking them or switch to a pregnancy-safe alternative.
Consult with your physician about any additional supplements you are currently taking.
Ensure you are at a healthy weight and BMI.
Discuss with your doctor about when to stop birth control.
Plan to have any internal contraceptives removed (such as an IUD or implant).
Take any necessary blood tests or exams your doctor ;recommends.
Diet and Nutrition
If you're a smoker, it's time to quit for good.
Eat a combination of fresh produce, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats at every meal.
Avoid foods loaded with preservatives, like those found in pre-packaged meals.
Consume fresh fruits and vegetables several times a day.
Get whole grains into your diet, like cereal, wheat and whole grain breads and pastas.
Have legumes, lentils and beans, which contain both fiber and plant protein.
Bone up on calcium with 3 daily servings of low-fat milk products.
Cut back on sugar, salt, and fatty foods.
Limit your consumption of fish, under-cooked meat, and unpasteurized dairy products while trying to conceive.
Trying to Conceive
Have ;intercourse ;2-3 times a week without using contraception.
Research position methods for increasing chances of conception.
Consider using the ;rhythm ;method to chart basal body temperature.
Supplements
Take a daily multivitamin to help boost the nutrients you need for conception.
Increase calcium intake.
Increase Iron intake.
Get more folic acid, from citrus fruits or a ;recommended ;folate supplement.
When you become pregnant, ask your doctor to recommend a good pre-natal ;vitamin.
Healthy Mind and Body
Develop a healthy, well-balanced exercise routine.
Spend time outdoors in the fresh air.
