These are the five things to put on your radar if you plan on trying for a baby in the near future. 

Unlike what the movies may have you believe, finally spotting that second line on a pregnancy test is a product of more than just luck. 

In fact, for some, falling pregnant naturally can take more than a little planning, patience and perseverance. 

So, here are five recommendations from Dr Sarah Cavanagh, a General Practitioner from InstantScripts, about how to best prepare for conception – both physically and emotionally.

#1. Start taking a folic acid supplement 

“While a healthy diet can provide some folic acid, it is often not enough to reach the required levels for pregnancy. That’s why supplementation is recommended to ensure adequate intake,” Dr Cavanagh says. 

Folic acid reduces the chance of neural tube defects – serious birth defects that affect the brain, spine, or spinal cord – in your unborn baby. 

“Women planning a pregnancy increase their dietary intake of folic acid a minimum of a month before trying to conceive. Folic acid supplementation (0.5mg daily) should also continue for the first three months of pregnancy, and some women may require a higher dose,” she adds

To discuss which supplements and dosages are right for you, always discuss with your GP.

#2. Check your vaccination status 

“Some infections can be particularly dangerous during pregnancy, and checking to see if you are up to date with your vaccinations is an important part of any preconception health check,” the GP says. 

“Some vaccines need to be given before pregnancy, whilst others provide baby with immunity when given to pregnant women during pregnancy.”

Dr Cavanagh recommends speaking to your GP about your vaccination status for measles, mumps, rubella, chicken pox, Covid-19, influenza and whooping cough.

 #3. Seek support to quit alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs 

“There are significant risks to mothers and babies exposed to alcohol, smoking, or drugs,” explains Dr Cavanagh. 

“These substances can also negatively impact your chance of conceiving in the first place.”

Ideally, the best time to quit is before you fall pregnant, so if you’re planning on trying for a baby, it’s better to err on the side of caution. As Dr Cavanagh says, your GP can provide support or offer counselling and referral for specialised assistance. 

#4. Talk to your doctor about Genetic Carrier Screening

Genetic Carrier Screening can provide parents-to-be with critical information about their chances of conceiving a child with one of three serious genetic conditions: cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy and fragile X syndrome.

“If couples are tested before conception, they can make informed reproductive decisions based on their risk of having a child with certain conditions, offering them a wider range of options,” explains Dr Cavanagh.

The test is now included in the Medicare Benefits Schedule making it more affordable for every eligible Australian. 

#5. Remember to prioritise your psychological health

While each stage of the pre and post-partum experience takes a considerable physical toll on the body, seeking adequate emotional support and psychological well-being in the perinatal period should also be a major focus for any prospective parents. 

“For those with pre-existing mental health needs, ideally check in with your GP, psychologist, or psychiatrist before you start to try,” says the GP. 

“And if you have never reached out for psychological support before, a GP can help link you in 

with a psychologist or support group so you never have to feel alone in this exciting but challenging time of life.”