What you should do while you're waiting for that big fat positive?

Hey there Future Momma! 

Congratulations on beginning the exciting journey into parenthood! It's a thrilling time filled with questions and, of course, a touch of nerves. It’s also an opportunity to start taking care of yourself and your future baby. You might also be here because you have some concerns. Worried you might be a little older than you hoped you’d be when you’d be starting a family. Perhaps you've heard stories about friends facing challenges on their road to pregnancy. You might even be aware that 1 in 6 women faces struggles in their first year of trying to conceive.

As someone who's been through my own infertility journey, I'm here to lend a helping hand to as many hopeful moms as I can, all striving for that dream of a happy and healthy baby.

So, let's start at the very beginning—or, technically, before the beginning we usually associate with pregnancy: The Pretrimester. You know about the three trimesters of pregnancy and you might even know about the fourth trimester after the baby arrives. But what about the months leading up to that positive test? Are there things you can do right now to better your chances, speed things up, and make your pregnancy journey smoother?

You bet!

"The Pretrimester is the intentional phase preceding conception, dedicated to mental, physical & emotional preparation. This conscious approach lays the foundation for a healthy & positive pregnancy experience & journey towards motherhood," says Dr. Laura Costello.

In essence, it's about taking control of everything you can before you even know you're pregnant. I'd argue it's the most important trimester—it's different for every woman, lasting a couple of months for some and several years for others. It's a goldmine of opportunity to set the stage for a healthy and happy pregnancy, and that's why it deserves attention.

What Can You Do Now?

Plenty! Here are some ideas:

Nutrition Matters: Start embracing a well-balanced diet rich in fertility-friendly nutrients. Think fruits, veggies, whole grains, and a rainbow of colorful foods. Your body and future baby will thank you!

Get Active: Whether it's a dance class, yoga, or a brisk walk—find what you love and get moving. Exercise not only boosts your mood but also supports overall well-being. Plus, increasing your strength will help as your body adjusts to the added baby weight.

Mind Over Matter: Managing stress is crucial. Consider mindfulness practices like meditation or journaling to keep stress levels in check. A happy mind sets the stage for a happy body.

Environmental Detox: Take a peek around your environment. Are there toxins that could be affecting your fertility? Swap out those chemical-laden products for more natural alternatives. A great place to start is swapping plastic for glass wherever you can.

Know Your Cycle: Familiarize yourself with your menstrual cycle. Understanding when you ovulate helps in timing conception attempts.

Remember, this is your unique journey, and you're not alone. Stay tuned for more tips, friendly advice, and a sprinkle of encouragement as we dive into the wonderful world of trying to conceive, pregnancy, and fertility.

Your Pretrimester Fertility Coach,

Dr. Laura Costello