Here are three things to do before conception. If you're considering conceiving, there are several critical factors to address before taking this life-changing step.

1. Prioritize Your Health

This applies to both partners. Establish a baseline of your health by scheduling comprehensive annual exams and lab work. If it’s been over a year since your last check-up, now is the time to book an appointment with your trusted healthcare provider. Identifying and addressing potential health issues beforehand can prevent complications during pregnancy. As a doula, I’ve seen clients face preventable health challenges during pregnancy—issues like hypertension and diabetes are much harder to manage once you're pregnant.

STI Screening

I know, no one wants to talk about this one. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can negatively affect fertility and pose significant risks to both the pregnancy and the baby. It's crucial to know your STI status before conception to ensure your health and that of your future child. When scheduling your annual exam, specifically request a full STI panel, as many STIs are not automatically tested for.

Untreated STIs during pregnancy can lead to:

• Premature labor (before 37 weeks)

• Infections in the uterus postpartum

• Low birth weight

• Transmission of infection to the baby

• Pregnancy loss

• Serious complications like neonatal herpes or syphilis-related complications

Women are particularly vulnerable to long-term consequences from untreated STIs, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility due to fallopian tube blockages or fluid accumulation.

Here’s a list of STIs that can complicate conception and pregnancy:

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

• Chlamydia: Bacterial infection that can damage the reproductive system.

• Genital herpes: Caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2.

• Gonorrhea: Affects the genitals, rectum, and throat.

• Hepatitis B

• HIV: Can lead to AIDS.

• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

• Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen)

• Ureaplasma

• Syphilis

• Trichomoniasis

Even in long-term, monogamous relationships, it’s advisable to get screened, as some infections can be asymptomatic for years. Make sure to request testing for all potential STIs, as they aren't all routinely included in standard tests.

For reference, here is an STI Screening Guideline from the CDC: CDC STI Screening Recommendations.

2. Build Your Birth Team

Once you have a clear picture of your health, it's time to assemble your birth team. Every family deserves a dedicated support system, including:

• Midwife or OBGYN: Choose a professional who aligns with your birth preferences. Consider whether their associated hospitals or birth centers offer specific services like VBAC, water birth, or breech delivery.

• Doula or Birthworker: Doulas offer emotional, physical, and educational support throughout your pregnancy and birth.

• Acupuncturist specializing in pregnancy: We assist with managing pregnancy-related symptoms, turning breech babies, preparing for labor, and gentle induction. Not all acupuncturists specialize in this area, so inquire about their experience. If you're in Houston, I’m available to help!

• Webster-certified chiropractor: Look for someone who specializes in pregnancy and infant care.

• Pelvic Floor Therapist: This can be a physical or occupational therapist specializing in the pelvic floor.

• Night nurse or postpartum doula: Helps with baby care during nighttime, ensuring you get the rest you need.

• Childcare providers: Whether you're planning to return to work or need occasional help, find someone you trust.

• Lactation consultant: They can help troubleshoot and provide guidance on breastfeeding.

• Postpartum meal service: A meal delivery service tailored to postpartum recovery can be invaluable.

• Maternal mental health therapist: They specialize in helping new mothers adjust to the emotional and psychological aspects of pregnancy and postpartum life.

This list is a foundation for a strong support team, but feel free to add other professionals you might find beneficial.

3. Financial Preparation

Once you've identified the services and care you need during pregnancy and postpartum, it’s essential to prepare financially. Understanding the costs associated with your birth plan allows you to plan ahead, reducing stress during this exciting time. Whether you’re saving up or reallocating funds, getting ahead of the financial aspects ensures that you can focus on the joy of parenthood, rather than worrying about unexpected expenses.

Financial pressure can lead to stress, which is counterproductive to a healthy pregnancy. Start preparing now to build a solid financial foundation for you and your baby.

The Impact of Financial Stress on Pregnancy Health

Financial stress is not just an emotional burden—it can have tangible physical effects on both the pregnant mother and the baby. Stress triggers the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which, when elevated for prolonged periods, can contribute to a range of health complications during pregnancy.

Health Conditions Linked to Financial Stress in Pregnancy:

Preterm Labor: Prolonged stress can increase the risk of preterm labor (before 37 weeks), which is one of the leading causes of infant mortality. Babies born prematurely are more likely to experience developmental delays, respiratory issues, and other long-term health challenges.

1. Gestational Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Financial concerns can elevate blood pressure, which can lead to gestational hypertension or, in more severe cases, preeclampsia. Both conditions can result in serious complications for the mother and baby, including preterm birth, restricted fetal growth, or the need for early delivery to protect the health of the mother.

2. Gestational Diabetes: Chronic stress has been shown to contribute to insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes. This condition can lead to high birth weight (macrosomia) and increase the chances of needing a cesarean section. It can also affect the baby’s blood sugar levels after birth.

3. Mental Health Disorders: Financial stress can exacerbate anxiety and depression during pregnancy. Perinatal depression (depression during pregnancy) affects not only the mother's mental health but can also impact fetal development and lead to postpartum depression. Managing mental health is crucial for both the pregnant mother and the baby’s overall well-being.

4. Reduced Immune Function: Chronic stress compromises the immune system, making pregnant mothers more susceptible to infections, which can have serious repercussions during pregnancy, including increased risk of complications such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or respiratory illnesses.

5. Low Birth Weight: Financial stress, particularly when prolonged, is linked to low birth weight in newborns, which can lead to developmental problems and a higher risk of chronic health conditions later in life.

6. Increased Risk of Postpartum Complications: Pregnant individuals experiencing high levels of financial stress may also face greater risks of postpartum hemorrhage, extended recovery periods, and difficulties in breastfeeding. Stress can interfere with the body’s ability to heal and adjust after childbirth, leading to complications that prolong the recovery process.

By planning early, families can reduce these risks and focus on fostering a healthy, supportive environment for both the mother and the baby. When you see a positive pregnancy test it should bring joy knowing that this is the moment you’ve been preparing for! Lastly, it’s important to recognize that financial preparation isn't just about budgeting—it's an investment in your physical and emotional well-being during pregnancy.

Need an Acu-Doula (Acupuncturist & Doula)?

In-person and virtual services are available for any families in need of acupuncture and doula support. Check it out here → Houston Acu-Doula Services.

Where to find more of my work:

Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube: @ihaveapointforthat

How to book an appointment with me: www.ihaveapointforthat.com

Check out my Patreon: I Have A Point For That - Uncensored & Unlimited