8 Things to Do Before Getting Pregnant I TCM Fertility

Introduction 

Preparing for pregnancy involves more than just physical readiness; it encompasses overall well-being and a balanced lifestyle (Office on Women’s Health, 2016) . At Golden Gate KL Fertility Centre, they emphasize a holistic approach through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to enhance fertility and ensure a healthy pregnancy journey. This guide will explore essential steps such as optimizing nutrition, managing stress, and integrate acupuncture and herbal medicine in fertility treatment alongside western medicine. By following these practices, you can create an optimal environment for conception and a healthy pregnancy. 

Track Your Cycle 

Understanding your menstrual cycle is crucial for identifying your fertile window and improving your chances of conception. Tracking your cycle helps you recognize patterns and pinpoint ovulation, which is essential for timing intercourse. To effectively track your ovulation, start by keeping a menstrual calendar to record the start and end dates of your periods. Additionally, measure your basal body temperature (BBT) daily, as a slight increase in temperature indicates ovulation. Another reliable method is using ovulation predictor kits (OPKs), which detect the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) that occurs just before ovulation. Combining these methods can help you accurately determine your most fertile days and improve your chances of conception. 

See Your Fertility Doctor 

Consulting with a fertility specialist can help identify any potential issues that might affect your ability to conceive. A fertility doctor can provide personalized advice and recommend treatments if necessary. Golden Gate KL Fertility Centre offers expert consultations to address your specific fertility needs and create a tailored plan. 

During a fertility consultation, you can expect a thorough health assessment, which includes a detailed review of your medical history, lifestyle, and any existing health conditions. The process also involves various tests such as blood tests, pelvic exams, and ultrasounds to evaluate reproductive health and identify any issues. Based on these findings, you will receive personalized advice and treatment plan on optimizing fertility, addressing any underlying health concerns, and making lifestyle modifications to support conception. 

Moreover, improving the egg quality for pregnancy is crucial. Egg quality is about the chromosomal integrity and developmental potential of an egg. Each egg contains 23 chromosomes, half of the genetic blueprint necessary to create a human life. When a high-quality egg, with its precise chromosomal arrangement, merges with a sperm, which also has 23 chromosomes, it forms a complete set of 46 chromosomes needed for a healthy embryo. This chromosomal integrity is vital for the egg’s ability to fertilize, grow, and develop into a healthy embryo. Optimal egg quality is crucial for achieving and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Golden Gate KL Fertility Centre focuses on enhancing egg quality, sperm quality and fertility through integration of advance science, western medicine and TCM.  

Learn Your Family History 

Understanding your family history can reveal genetic conditions or health issues that might affect your pregnancy or your baby’s health. Discussing your family history with your doctor can help manage potential risks. At Golden Gate KL Fertility Centre, genetic counseling is part of the comprehensive fertility assessment. 

Key Points to Discuss 

Genetic Disorders: Conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and hemophilia. 

Chronic Diseases: Family history of diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease. 

Reproductive Issues: History of miscarriages, infertility, or birth defects. 

Genetic counseling helps you understand the risks of inherited conditions and make informed decisions about your pregnancy. This process includes genetic testing through blood tests to identify potential genetic issues. During counseling sessions, a genetic counselor will discuss test results and help you understand the associated risks. Additionally, you will receive guidance on managing and mitigating these risks during pregnancy, ensuring both maternal and fetal health are optimally supported. 

Maintain a Healthy, Balanced Diet 

A nutritious diet is essential for preparing your body for pregnancy. Eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods can improve your overall health and fertility. The nutritional status of both women and men before conception profoundly impacts the growth, development, and long-term health of their offspring (Barker et al., 2018). Golden Gate KL Fertility Centre emphasizes the importance of diet in their holistic approach to fertility.

Dietary Recommendations 

Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

Whole Grains: Provide energy and essential nutrients like fiber and B vitamins. 

Lean Proteins: Important for muscle health and hormone production. 

Healthy Fats: Essential for hormone regulation and cell function. 

Exercise Regularly 

Regular physical activity can improve your overall health, boost your energy levels, and reduce stress—all of which are beneficial when trying to conceive. 

Recommended Activities 

Aerobic Exercise: Walking, swimming, and cycling to improve cardiovascular health. 

Strength Training: Helps maintain muscle mass and supports metabolic health. 

Flexibility and Relaxation: Yoga and Pilates to reduce stress and improve flexibility. 

Take Folic Acid 

Folic acid is essential for preventing neural tube defects in the developing fetus, and it is recommended to start taking it at least three month before conception. The advised dosage is a daily supplement of 400-800 micrograms. Dietary sources of folic acid include leafy greens, citrus fruits, beans, and fortified cereals. Ensuring an adequate intake of folic acid through supplements and diet is crucial for supporting healthy fetal development from the very beginning of pregnancy. 

Reach and Maintain a Healthy Weight 

Impact of Weight on Fertility 

Maintaining a healthy weight can improve your chances of conception and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy. Both underweight and overweight women may experience fertility issues. 

Strategies for Healthy Weight 

Balanced Diet: Focus on nutrient-dense foods and proper portion sizes. 

Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. 

Lifestyle Changes: Avoid fad diets and focus on sustainable, healthy habits. 

Make a Quit Plan (Stop Drinking Alcohol, Smoking, and Using Certain Drugs) 

Alcohol, smoking, and certain drugs can negatively impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes, making it crucial to quit these substances for a healthy pregnancy. To quit, seek support from a doctor or counselor. Find healthy alternatives for stress relief, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies. Additionally, avoid triggers by staying away from environments or situations that tempt you to use these substances. Taking these steps can significantly improve your fertility and overall health, supporting a successful pregnancy.