family planning It is a fundamental part of modern life. More and more women and men are choosing to plan their time to become parents consciously. Choosing when to conceive is not something to be taken lightly, as there are many factors to take into account, such as health status, age and the right time within the menstrual cycle. In this article we will address everything that should be taken into account when planning a pregnancy and the care to be taken before, during and after conception.
The menstrual cycle and ovulation
The menstrual cycle is the first aspect to consider when trying to conceive in a planned way. The woman's cycle repeats approximately every 28 days, although it can vary between 21 and 35 days. The cycle has several phases, but the most crucial for conception is the ovulation.
Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries and travels to the fallopian tubes. This usually happens halfway through the menstrual cycle, and is when a woman is most fertile. It usually occurs 14 days before the onset of menstruation. Knowing this moment is essential to increase the chances of pregnancy.
A simple and cost-free way to identify ovulation is through measuring the basal temperatureDuring ovulation, progesterone levels rise, causing a slight increase in body temperature. This can be measured at home with a basal thermometer, which can observe an increase of between 0,2ºC and 0,5ºC. Keeping a diary will help you understand your fertile days.
Modern methods for detecting ovulation
For those people who want a more accurate way to know when they are ovulating, there are ovulation tests which measure the increase in the hormone LH (luteinizing hormone). This hormone peaks 36 hours before ovulation, which indicates the exact moment when there is the greatest chance of achieving pregnancy.
These tests are easy to find in pharmacies and are used with a urine sample, similar to a pregnancy test. The test will tell you when the LH hormone is at its highest, which marks the best time to try to conceive.
What to consider when planning to become parents?
Choosing the right time to become a parent involves much more than just determining the exact moment of ovulation. Below, we will examine some of the most important elements when making this decision.
From a medical point of view, although a woman's body is at its most fertile around the age of 25, many women today wait a long time before deciding to become mothers. And although there is no perfect age, the preconception consultation is vital to determining the best conditions for a healthy pregnancy.
Preconception consultation: Preparing to become parents
La preconception consultation It is a medical examination designed to prepare the body for pregnancy and minimize the risks for both the mother and the future baby. This consultation includes:
- The analysis of sexually transmitted diseases and the need for vaccinations such as rubella or human papillomavirus (HPV).
- A thorough check for previous illnesses such as toxoplasmosis and other infections that could affect the baby's development.
- Review of the family background to identify possible genetic risks and facilitate a safe pregnancy.
This checkup helps reduce the risk of complications for both mother and baby and create a plan for a healthy pregnancy.
Risk factors to consider
There are factors that can influence the success of a pregnancy and it is advisable that these are treated before trying. Some of the most important are:
- Body weight: Maintaining a healthy weight is key to a successful pregnancy.
- Lifestyle habits: Reducing alcohol, tobacco and drug consumption is essential, as these substances can affect the health of the baby from the moment of conception.
- Family histories of genetic problems or chronic diseases.
Nutrition and its effects on pregnancy They also play a crucial role. A balanced diet, rich in nutrients such as iron and calcium, is essential for the development of the fetus and the general health of the mother.
Importance of nutrition during pregnancy
During pregnancy, the mother's diet not only affects her well-being, but also that of the baby. Eating properly can prevent complications, ensure good fetal development and improve maternal health. To follow a balanced diet during pregnancy, it is essential to include:
- Proteins: essential for the development of the baby's tissues and organs.
- Carbohydrates: provide necessary energy for both mother and child.
- Healthy fats: contribute to the development of the baby's brain.
- Vitamins and minerals: especially iron, calcium, and folic acid.
Folic acid, in particular, is vital during the first weeks of pregnancy as it helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
Pre-pregnancy health care tips
In addition to eating well, there are other important points to consider before trying to get pregnant:
- Quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- Consult your doctor about the medications you are taking.
- Get vaccinated to prevent diseases that can affect the development of the baby, such as rubella.
Having good health before pregnancy is key to ensuring that both mother and baby will have optimal development during pregnancy.
Weight and its influence on pregnancy
When talking about family planning, the mother's weight is a crucial factor. Maintaining an adequate weight is essential, since both being too low and too high can have negative consequences for the mother and the baby during pregnancy. Being overweight can increase the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension and other complications. On the other hand, a weight below the ideal can result in premature births or babies with low birth weight.
It is important to work with a nutritionist or physician to determine if current eating habits are appropriate or if changes are needed to achieve a healthy weight before trying to conceive.
Be in good health before trying to get pregnant It is just as important to maintain it throughout the entire nine months of pregnancy. Many mothers-to-be focus only on what they need to do once pregnancy begins, but starting off in the best possible health will make the process of conceiving easier and the pregnancy safer for both mother and baby.
Planning when to have children is a decision that depends on many factors, both physical and emotional. Knowing the best time in the menstrual cycle to conceive, having a preconception consultation and following a balanced diet are some of the most important aspects to take into account.