Preconception Advice – True or False?

When you are ready to try to figure out how to conceive a girl you will inevitably come across a huge amount of sometimes conflicting advice and “facts” from the media, doctors and well-meaning family and friends. With this information overload, the truth can be hard to come by. If you’re not sure where to start, these truths and myths about getting pregnant can help lead your way.

1) I eat a healthy diet with lots of leafy vegetables so I do not need to take a folic acid supplement

False. Folic acid is the single supplement that all medical professionals agree women (and men) should take before trying for a baby. Low levels of folate increase the risk of birth defects, especially those that are considered neural tube defects (that affect the brain and spine.) However good your diet is it is hard to get the amount of folic acid that doctors recommend, so parents to be are advised to take 400 mcg per day at least 1 month prior to conception.

2) A preconception checkup is a good idea for Mom and Dad

True Visiting your doctor prior to beginning to try to conceive is indeed a good idea for both of you. Letting your doctor in on your plans allows them to address any health issues that may need to be resolved prior to conception (losing or gaining weight for instance)

3) All women ovulate on the 14th day of their menstrual cycle

False There is no such thing as a set cycle, each woman’s is completely unique to her and subject to change at any given time. To improve your chances of getting pregnant monitoring your personal fertility patterns is a good idea, but even that is only a rough guide as to when a woman might be at her most fertile from month to month.

4) Dad does not have to give up drinking in the preconception period but Mom does.

False Sorry guys the no alcohol rule applies to you too (as does the no smoking) Sperm production and development are impeded by alcohol in men, and of course drinking decreases a guy’s performance level anyway (brewer’s droop is the lay term) never a good thing when trying to make a baby.