If you are thinking of starting a family it is wise to check the following items first:
Have a blood test to check your RUBELLA IMMUNITY. If you are not protected your baby may be severely affected should you come into contact with this disease.
Have a CERVICAL SMEAR to ensure the cervix (neck of the womb) is healthy as some conditions of the cervix are difficult to treat during pregnancy.
Some other items to which you should give serious consideration are:
SMOKING - STOP NOW.
ALCOHOL - For a healthier baby, reduce your intake to a minimum before and during pregnancy and while breast feeding.
WEIGHT - Try to get to your correct weight before becoming pregnant as you will have fewer problems with conditions such as backache and it will be easier to regain your figure afterwards.
FOLIC ACID - Tablets can be obtained from the chemist and should be taken before conception and for about three months into the pregnancy. This has been shown to reduce the risk of foetal abnormality.
AVOID - CAT LITTER because of the risk of toxoplasmosis.
SOFT CHEESES and PATES because of the risk of listeriosis.
RAW EGGS and CHICKEN that has not been properly de-frosted. Ensure that both of these are cooked thoroughly before you eat them. That will reduce the risk of salmonella.