Follow these Good Health Rules for optimal health:
Rule #4: Prepare for Pregnancy
Rule #5: Maintain a Healthy Weight During Pregnancy
Rule #6: Manage Stress in Healthy Ways
Rule #7: Taking Steps to Preserve or Increase Fertility
Since 50% of all pregnancies are unplanned, it is clear that we are not in control of our reproductive health. Every woman should be thinking about her reproductive and sexual health well before she chooses to conceive and plan accordingly.
While OB/GYN wisdom tells us that women should increase their nutrient and caloric intake when expecting, that doesn't mean you should skip the veggies and trips to the gym for the duration of your pregnancy. It is important for you to maintain a healthy weight and get regular exercise not only for the good of your health but also for that of your baby.
Swedish Medical Center and American Pregnancy Association.
High levels of stress can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to high blood pressure, depression, and weight gain. Since feelings of stress and anxiety are inherent to our experience, how can we address it in a healthy way? Cultivating positive outlets for processing these emotions are essential to good health. Here are a few ideas to get you started thinking about your own plan for managing stress.
Even if you aren't the least bit interested in getting pregnant, these guidelines for preserving or increasing fertility are still bits of good health advice every woman should follow.