Assess your health status, especially if you have had previous health issues or chronic conditions. Pregnancy may affect the course of certain illnesses, and vice versa.

Particular attention should be paid to:

• diabetes
• mood disorders (including depression)
• high blood pressure
• epilepsy
• other chronic conditions

It is also important to discuss any daily medications with your doctor. Some medicines may affect fetal development or the course of pregnancy and may need to be adjusted or replaced. Changes to medication should always be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Visit a dentist
Oral and gum health is important when planning a pregnancy. If you experience tooth sensitivity or bleeding gums, it is advisable to visit a dentist before conception.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy may increase the risk of gum bleeding and inflammation.

Improve your habits
Preparing for pregnancy begins with everyday choices. Before conception, it is recommended to:

• eat a varied and regular diet
• drink enough water
• engage in moderate and consistent physical activity

Harmful habits should be avoided, as smoking, nicotine, alcohol and other addictive substances can harm the unborn child. If needed, support is available from a family doctor or addiction counsellor.

Ensure workplace safety
Most workplaces are safe during pregnancy, but some jobs may involve exposure to substances or equipment that can affect fetal development. It is advisable to discuss working conditions with your employer or occupational health specialist already during family planning.

Take vitamins, especially folic acid
Vitamin use is individual, but folic acid is recommended when planning pregnancy and during the first trimester. Folic acid:

• supports fertility
• helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus

Learn about your menstrual cycle
The likelihood of conception is not the same throughout the cycle. During one menstrual cycle, the probability of conception is approximately 20–25%.
Ovulation must occur for conception, and the egg is viable for about 24 hours. Typically, one egg matures in the middle of the cycle, while sperm maturation takes on average about three days.

When to seek counselling?

If pregnancy has not occurred within 12 months after stopping contraception and having regular sexual intercourse (on average 2–3 times per week), it is recommended to consult a gynecologist and an andrologist.

If necessary, examinations may include:

• sexually transmitted infection tests
• hormone analyses
• genetic and other relevant tests

When planning a pregnancy, it is important to pay attention to daily habits and overall well-being. A strong health foundation creates favourable conditions for pregnancy and supports the well-being of both mother and baby.

Physical activity
Moderate and regular exercise, such as walking, yoga or swimming, helps maintain physical fitness and prepares the body for pregnancy.

Balanced nutrition
A varied and nutritious diet rich in vegetables, whole grains and protein supports fertility and helps reduce pregnancy-related health risks.

Sleep and rest
Adequate sleep and mindful rest breaks during the day help maintain energy levels and support hormonal balance.

Mental well-being
Reducing stress and maintaining emotional balance are essential when preparing for pregnancy. If needed, counselling with a specialist may be helpful.

Environmental and lifestyle choices
Avoid smoking, alcohol and other addictive substances. Attention should also be paid to the work and living environment to reduce exposure to potentially harmful factors.

Healthy habits before pregnancy help create a strong foundation for the baby’s healthy development and support a safe and smooth pregnancy.

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