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Should I update my vaccines before I try to become pregnant?

It is generally advisable to be up to date with all your vaccinations before trying to conceive. However, it is important to do so in consultation with your doctor, because some vaccines can cause complications for your baby. Although some vaccinations can be given in pregnancy, certain other vaccinations require you to wait a month before trying to conceive.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is a pre-pregnancy check-up?

A pre-pregnancy (also known as pre-conception) check-up is when you see your doctor before trying to get pregnant. This allows your doctor to identify any risk factors that may cause complications during your pregnancy and provide you with ways to manage …

Is a pre-pregnancy check-up really necessary?

A pre-pregnancy check-up is essential if you have a medical condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease or epilepsy. The better informed you are about your pregnancy and health, the better decisions you can …

If I stop taking the Pill, how long will it be before I can become pregnant?

Ovulation can occur in the first cycle after you stop taking the Pill. If you are using long-term birth control measures such as contraceptive injection, it may be several months before you can conceive.

What is the best time to get pregnant?

When one of your ovaries produces an egg, this is called ovulation. It is the best time to try to get pregnant and usually occurs about halfway through your monthly menstrual cycle.

Why do I need to stop drinking alcohol during pregnancy?

Alcohol may harm your baby if taken during pregnancy. There is no safe limit to the amount of alcohol that can be had during pregnancy. Therefore, it is generally best to avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

What is a sperm test?

A sperm test is often carried out when a couple are having problems conceiving, to see if the reason is the male's fertility. Sperm are examined to see how many there are and how well they move around, as well as how many abnormal sperm there are.

What is genetic counselling?

Genetic counselling is advice given to you by a specially-trained genetic counsellor and is often necessary when your family has a history of inherited disorders such as hemophilia or cystic fibrosis.

I have heavy and painful periods. Will it be difficult for me to conceive?

Heavy, painful periods probably won't have any impact on your ability to conceive, but if you have severe symptoms, it is best to talk to your doctor so they can rule out endometriosis, fibroids and pelvic infection.

My partner and I are both over 30 years of age, will this affect our chances of conceiving?

Male fertility is not hugely affected by age, but female fertility tends to decline after age 35.

Why should I stop smoking if I am pregnant?

Smoking can harm your baby during pregnancy, so it is a good idea to cut down or quit smoking when you are pregnant.

Why should I stop smoking before I am pregnant?

Smoking lowers your chances of getting pregnant, which is why it is recommended you quit smoking before trying to conceive. Smoking can harm your baby during pregnancy, so it is a good idea to try and break bad habits before pregnancy.

Related topics

A guide through normal pregnancy

Diet and pregnancy

Pregnancy and mental health

Bacterial vaginosis

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Fertility

About this article

Author: Dr Nikki Wallis PhD, BSc
First answered: 18 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 17 Oct 2018
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Votes: 894 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: A guide through normal pregnancy

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