Are you ready to conceive?
Everything you need to know about how to improve the health of your future pregnancy and baby.
In this section
-
Tips for a healthy pre-pregnancy diet
If you’re planning to get pregnant, eating a healthy, balanced diet will help you stay well throughout pregnancy and be good for your baby’s health. -
Underweight and fertility when planning a pregnancy
If you have a low BMI, there are things you can do to improve your chances of getting pregnant and reduce the risk of pregnancy complications. -
Drugs, alcohol and trying to conceive
You can improve your fertility and reduce the risk of pregnancy complications by quitting alcohol and recreational or illegal drugs. -
The benefits of exercising/being active when trying to conceive
Being active and spending less time sitting down (known as being sedentary) can help with getting pregnant, pregnancy and mental wellbeing. -
Getting pregnant and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
If you think you may have a sexually transmitted infection (STI), you (and any partners) should have a check-up before you start trying to get pregnant. -
Benefits of taking folic acid and vitamin D before pregnancy
You are advised to take folic acid and vitamin D supplements (tablets) if you are trying to get pregnant. This can help prevent pregnancy complications. -
How smoking affects female and male fertility
If you are a smoker and planning to have a baby, the best thing you can do is stop before trying to get pregnant. Read more about getting support to quit. -
Caffeine and getting pregnant
Consuming too much caffeine in pregnancy can cause serious complications. Try to limit your caffeine intake while you are trying to get pregnant. -
Overweight and fertility when planning a pregnancy
Being a healthy weight is helpful if you are planning a pregnancy. Having a healthy BMI helps with fertility, pregnancy and the future health of the child. -
Cervical screening when trying to conceive
Cervical screening checks the health of your cervix (the opening to your womb from your vagina). It’s a good idea to do this before getting pregnant. -
Rubella vaccine (MMR) before pregnancy
Rubella is rare but can be dangerous to an unborn baby if you catch it while you’re pregnant. You can prevent this by making sure you have the MMR vaccination. -
Conception and your baby's genes
Your baby’s physical and mental development will be affected by genes passed down from both biological parents. Find out more about genetics and development.
Image
Are you ready to conceive?
Try out our quick quiz for women who are planning a pregnancy. It will tell you all you need to know about how to improve the health of your future pregnancy and baby.