Preconception preparation

[TheJuniperTree]

I will be starting a new job in November so will not be in a position to start TTC with my DP until next year at the earliest. I'd like to be in my new role at least a year before starting to TTC, or perhaps start trying this time next year as it could take a while.

I will be 38 (my DP 33) when we do start TTC and this will be both of our first child.

The reason for waiting a year or so is because of the new job (hopefully they will offer enhanced maternity pay if I've been there a year - but I won't know what's on offer (if anything) before I start. So I'm working on the basis that it's going to be Statutory Mat Pay and anything else is a bonus).

Also, as I have a mortgage I need the year to save money also. I own the house in my sole name (purchased after my divorce a few years ago). DP lives with me and pays for all our food and bills. I pay the mortgage as we are not married.

So, it looks like I have a full year minimum to prepare for TTC.

What, if you had a year to prepare, would you do? This could be anything i.e change of diet (but to what?), lose weight (what weight is "idea"?), save money (how much?).

Any ideas would be gratefully received as, whilst I'd love to start TTC now, if I put together an action plan that will at least keep me busy over the next year and hopefully put me in a better position when it's time to start trying for a family.

Thanks everyone!

Xx

I wish more people planned in advance of pregnancy. There are lots of things to think about, eating well, building fitness, financial planning etc. Any current health issues for either of you? Do you take any medication? Do you know if you had the MMR injection? If not it is recommended to have 2 doses before pregnancy to protect you from rubella (your GP can check your notes. Depending where your families are from historically it may be worth checking your haemoglobin type (checking for sickle cell or thalassaemia). Folic acid supplements are advised for at least 3 months in advance of trying to conceive. If you want to PM me about any specific questions I will gladly advise if I can.

@Sussexmidwife thank you for your informative and kind reply.

I had no idea about checking whether I have had the MMR so will do that when I'm next at my GP.

Myself and DP do not have any health conditions save for perhaps both benefiting from losing a bit of weight (the plus side of having a year to prepare). My BMI is in the normal zone but I know I'm carrying a bit of extra weight of like to shift before betting pregnant.

One thing I will ask and perhaps you could answer here as it may help others....when it comes to pre-conception multi vitamins I have recently purchased the branded popular ones you can get from boots and it says on the back of the packet that the vitamins can be taken for UP TO three months before starting to TTC?!?!? Surely there would be no harm in taking multi vitamins for longer?

X

@TheJuniperTree Thank you for starting this thread! We’re getting married in April 2021 and planning TTC after this. I’ve got one month of my pill left so going to stop after this to let my body adjust before trying. I’m also thinking of starting folic acid and possibly vitamin d (I’m sure this is one I've read is good to take when TTC) in the new year. Looking forward to following everyone’s journeys on this thread! Xx

@TheJuniperTree no problem at all to keep taking the multivits