6 Reasons to Prioritize Physical Health Before Pregnancy
As a woman, planning a pregnancy may be one of the best decisions you ever make. It is an exciting time in a woman’s life and is full of wonder and anticipation. However, before you embark on that journey, there are essential steps that you need to take. One of the vital steps is putting your physical health first. The health of your pregnancy directly depends on your physical health beforehand. Here are six reasons why you should prioritize physical health before pregnancy:
1. Improve Fertility and Conception Rates
One of the most important reasons to prioritize your physical health before pregnancy is to improve your fertility and conception rates. When your body is healthy and in good shape, you have a higher chance of getting pregnant quickly.
Studies show that a healthy body mass index (BMI) can result in increased fertility rates. Being overweight or underweight can have adverse effects on your reproductive system, which hampers your chances of conception. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and balanced hormone levels can improve your fertility and increase your chances of successful pregnancy.
2. Reduce the Risk of Pregnancy Complications
Pregnancy can be a time fraught with several complications, following which you need to be extra cautious about your health. However, by prioritizing your physical health beforehand, you can reduce your risk of developing pregnancy complications.
Studies have found that women who are healthy and physically fit have a lower risk of developing gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and other pregnancy-related complications. You should work on improving your diet, quit smoking, and avoid alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy.
3. Minimize the Risk of Birth Defects
By prioritizing physical health, you can also reduce the risk of birth defects in your baby. Certain medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and being overweight or underweight can increase the chances of your baby being born with health issues.
You should aim to achieve a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and eat a balanced diet to ensure your baby is healthy and free from birth defects. Regular prenatal checkups are also important in monitoring your baby’s development.
4. Better Postpartum Recovery
After giving birth, your body goes through various changes and trauma that may take some time to recover fully. However, if you prioritize your physical health before pregnancy, you can speed up your recovery process postpartum.
Maintaining good physical health can help you battle fatigue, pain, and other postpartum complications. Moreover, if you have a healthy weight, you may be able to get back to your pre-pregnancy fitness level and body shape quicker.
5. Improved Emotional Health
Physical health also plays a pivotal role in emotional health. Pregnancy, after all, can be an emotional roller coaster. You can make this journey easier for yourself if you prioritize your physical health early.
Studies show that physical exercise can help improve emotional health and lower stress and anxiety levels. You can also work on improving your diet and lifestyle habits like sleep routines to boost your emotional wellness.
6. Set a Good Example
Lastly, by prioritizing physical health, you can set a good example for your future child. You can show them the importance of taking care of their bodies and being healthy.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle before, during, and after pregnancy can lead to an overall healthy and happy family.
Conclusion
Preparing for pregnancy shouldn’t only be about getting your finances in order and picking out baby names. You need to prioritize your physical health before pregnancy to increase your fertility, reduce the risk of pregnancy complications, and provide your baby with the best possible start in life. Remember, a healthy mom is a happy mom, and a happy mom leads to a happy baby.
