Becoming parents is one of the most transformational experiences of your
life! While making plans to have a baby is extremely exciting, it can
also be overwhelming. As the largest birthing center in Los Angeles and
San Bernardino Counties, Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center is here
to help! Use this
8-step guide to support you and your partner as you make your dream of becoming parents
a reality.
1. START THE BABY TALK
Discuss your plans to get pregnant with your partner. You want to make
sure that you are both ready to become parents.
2. QUIT YOUR BIRTH CONTROL
Stop using birth control 1 to 3 months before you try to get pregnant.
If you aren’t ready to get pregnant right away, you may want to
use another form of contraception.
3. EAT RIGHT
Maintain a healthy weight by focusing on a well-balanced diet. Start taking
prenatal vitamins with folic acid 1 to 3 months before you start trying
to get pregnant. You will want to stop smoking and drinking alcohol and
cut back on caffeine as well.
4. PREPARING FOR THE PUSH
It’s called labor for a reason, so be sure to exercise regularly
in preparation for birth. Walking is a great low-impact way to raise your
heart rate. Thirty minutes of walking per day is recommended. Becoming
parents is one of the most transformational experiences of your life!
While making plans to have a baby is extremely exciting, it can also be
overwhelming. As the largest birthing center in Los Angeles and San Bernardino
Counties, Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center is here to help! Use this
8-step guide to support you and your partner as you make your dream of
becoming parents a reality.
5. SEE YOUR DOCTOR
Schedule a prenatal and dental checkup. Discuss your plan to get pregnant
with your doctor so you can determine what tests or vaccines you may need,
how to manage any pre-existing conditions during pregnancy and what medications
are safe to use while pregnant. Need an Obstetrician? We can help! Contact
our Physician Referral Service at
909.865.9858.
6. GET DAD READY, TOO!
It is just as important that your partner is in overall good health before
deciding to have a baby. He should schedule an appointment to see his
doctor for a complete physical.
7. MAKE A PLAN
Don’t stress yourself out. Look into your health benefits and discuss
what your out-of-pocket expenses may be. Put together a budget that includes
maternity/paternity leave and childcare.
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