Imagup General Magazine 2024
Deciding on having kids is one of the most important decisions that you will ever make. Many people have a list of requirements they want to meet before having children. And this is completely normal because everyone wants their kids to have everything they need.
Upon reaching this milestone in your life and before getting pregnant, there are some things that you should do. You have to thoroughly prepare both your body and mind for this because it is the only way to ensure that everything goes perfectly. If you want to learn more about all the details, you can read more here, since we are only going to focus on some primary tips.
Talk with your partner
This is the absolute first thing that you have to do. This is, without a doubt, the biggest decision in your lives, and you have to ensure that both of you are on the same page. Have an open conversation and discuss your visions for the future. Maybe one of you has a specific timeline to follow or a plan when it comes to the number of children. Whatever has even crossed your mind, you have to honestly discuss it with your partner.
Be an open book
If you have any kind of concerns about the pregnancy or even your life in the future, you have to be clear about it. No, no-one is going to judge you if there is something that frightens you, but you should inform your spouse about it and allow them to help you overcome that fear.
Obviously, this is something that you should only bring up if you feel safe in the relationship and think that you have found your soulmate. In addition, make sure that both you and your partner aren’t having any kind of problems that might have a negative impact this decision.
Listen carefully
Just like you want your other half to listen to your thoughts and arguments attentively and give you the chance to say what’s on your mind, you have to the same thing for them. Even if their attitude is different from yours, you have to be understanding and respectful.
If he or she isn’t providing you with concrete answers, maybe you should leave this matter to rest for a few months. You have to understand that they might not be ready to become parents yet which is why they are trying to avoid having this conversation.
Do research
If both of you feel like you need some more time and information before making this decision, it is time to carry out research. Clearly, there are so many sources, both printed and online ones, so if you feel lost, you might want to look for a recommendation where to start.
If you think that the right time for kids has come, you should start by reading pregnancy books and articles that are going to help you learn more about it. Also, don’t forget to acquire some basic information about the early stages of the life of your future baby. You will feel calmer and prepared once you get all this information.
Consider finances
If we are being honest, finances are usually the thing that changes people’s minds when it comes to having kids. It is completely natural to have some hesitations, but if you want to determine whether these are founded or not, you should make a list of your incomes and expenses and also think about how a child would fit into your lives, financially speaking.
There is no doubt about it – children are expensive. Not only do you have to consider early doctor’s visits, clothes, food, and diapers, but also don’t forget to include costs related to school, trips, college, and so on. A lot of people would argue that having a kid if you are not able to provide for it, is irresponsible.
Talk about this with your significant other. You will also have to think about which one is going to stay home with the baby, and who is going to return to work immediately. Maybe one of you wants to quit the job and be a stay-at-home parent. If this is the case, you have to come up with a detailed plan in order to ensure that you will have enough funds.
Find the right doctor
Now, we are going to discuss some things that you should do in order to prepare your body. As you can assume, the first thing that you should do is to consult a doctor. Why? Building a strong relationship with an OB/GYN or a midwife is very beneficial because not only do you have someone you can rely on, but you can also ask them for advice.
Furthermore, don’t forget to get thoroughly checked out. It is of vital importance to examine your overall well-being because it is the only way to ensure that your baby is going to be healthy. This can include everything, from hereditary diseases that might run in your family to some small disorders that don’t affect you but can harm your baby.
Change everyday habits
Let’s be honest, most of us do not have healthy habits. We do not get enough sleep, we are constantly stressed out, we go out, drink, and some might smoke. As it is to be expected, you should stop using alcohol and cigarettes during the entire pregnancy. Not only are these harmful to your health, but they can also cause your baby to be born with some major health issues.
Moreover, try to manage your stress levels since it can be quite dangerous for both you and the child. Yes, we know, this is easier said than done, but you have to find something that relaxes you. Don’t be scared to try different things, everything from creative to light physical activities.
Have a healthy diet and strengthen your body
This goes without saying, but you have to stop eating unhealthy food. This means that you should not consume fast food and junk food, anything that has been processed and that has a lot of fat and sugar. Instead, opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, and eggs. When it comes to seafood, you should be careful because these can be high in mercury which is not good for the baby.
Don’t forget to increase water intake. As you surely know, during pregnancy you are going to pee a lot, so you have to make sure that your body is always hydrated. Additionally, remember to take your prenatal vitamins.
When it comes to physical activity, if you are already working out on a regular basis in the gym, you should tone it down a bit. Stressful fitness sessions are harsh on your body that now has a more important thing to do. Instead, you should opt for some general exercises like brisk walking.
