Important Things to Consider BEFORE trying for a Baby

So, you and your partner are ready to grow your family. You’ve had the deep conversations, daydreamed about life with a little one, and you’re excited to start “practicing.” But before you begin tracking ovulation kits or picking out baby names—there are a few crucial steps worth taking to give yourself the best start possible.

1. Book a Preconception Check-Up

Your first stop? Your doctor’s office. A preconception health check can identify any underlying issues that may affect fertility or pregnancy, and ensure you're up to date with:

• Pap smears

• Dental check-ups (gum health matters!)

• Breast screens or ultrasounds (if relevant to your age or history)

This is also the time to review medications, chronic health conditions, or genetic risk factors. Don’t forget—your partner should have a check-up too.

2. Learn Your Cycle (Like, Really Learn It)

Even if your periods are regular, understanding your unique cycle is essential. Track it for at least 3–6 months to figure out how many days your cycle lasts and when you ovulate. Most women ovulate 14 days before their next period, not necessarily 14 days after their last.

Apps that make cycle-tracking easier:

• Flo Period Tracker

• Clue

• My Calendar Ovulation Tracker

Pro tip: Look for signs like cervical mucus changes and basal body temperature shifts to confirm ovulation.

3. Clean Up Your Diet—Both of You

The food you eat now can affect your future fertility and the health of your future baby. A fertility-friendly diet should be rich in:

• Leafy greens

• Whole grains

• Protein (especially from plant sources and fish)

• Healthy fats

For women:
Start taking 0.5mg of folic acid daily, ideally at least one month before conception and for the first trimester. This helps prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida.
We also recommend starting a high-quality prenatal vitamin. Our top pick? The Prenatal by Moode —it’s packed with highly bioavailable folinic acid, Choline (vital for brain development), and no fillers or nasties. (As always, consult your doctor before starting any new supplements.)

For men:
Sperm quality matters. A diet high in zinc, selenium, Vitamin C, CoQ10, and folate supports healthy sperm production. The Mediterranean diet is a great template—think fresh vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil.

4. Ditch Unhealthy Habits

If you’re smoking, drinking heavily, or using recreational drugs—now’s the time to stop. These habits impact fertility in both men and women. If you’re on prescription medications, speak with your GP before making any changes.

5. Start Thinking About Lifestyle Shifts

Getting your body ready for pregnancy isn’t just about fertility—it’s about energy, mindset, and preparation. Think about:

• Managing stress and sleep

• Moving your body regularly

• Creating a supportive environment for conception

You don’t have to have it all perfect. But knowledge is power—and laying the foundation now can make your journey into motherhood feel more empowered and less overwhelming.