Pre-Pregnancy Checklist

Review your complete medical history with your doctor, including any chronic conditions, and complete any recommended blood work. This establishes a baseline for your health before conception and identifies any conditions that may need management during pregnancy.

Discuss all medications you're taking with your doctor to ensure they're safe during pregnancy or to explore alternatives if needed.

Start taking a prenatal vitamin containing at least 0.5mg of folic acid and iodine at least one month before trying to conceive, ideally 3-4 months before. Carefully review any supplements with your doctor, as high doses of preformed vitamin A (retinol) can cause birth defects.

Schedule a dental appointment to treat any existing issues and see a hygienist, as gum disease is linked to pregnancy complications.

Focus on healthy eating and avoid foods with high listeria risk, including soft cheeses, deli meats, and raw fish. A nutritious diet supports fertility and early pregnancy health.

Stop consuming alcohol, smoking, and using recreational drugs before conception. These substances can impact fertility and cause serious harm during pregnancy.

Keep up with regular, moderate-intensity exercise to support overall health and fertility. Avoid suddenly starting challenging exercise routines, as this can be stressful on your body during early pregnancy.

Work toward a healthy body mass index, as this increases your chances of conception and supports a healthier pregnancy.

Limit caffeine consumption to roughly 200mg per day (about 2 espressos). High caffeine intake may affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

Immediately stop using retinoids (Retin-A, retinol, retinyl palmitate), hydroquinone, and high-concentration salicylic acid (over 2%) when trying to conceive. Switch to mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) and safe alternatives like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid. Avoid sunscreens and skincare products containing oxybenzone, and check products for sodium lauryl sulfate, which has been linked to birth defects.

Investigate pregnancy-safe options for hair dye, manicures, and pedicures. While these may be considered safe, they're best avoided during the first trimester. If you choose salon services in the second and third trimester, select well-ventilated locations and use vegetable-based or ammonia-free dyes when possible. Note that the European Union has banned Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) in gel nail products effective September 1, 2025, due to its classification as a potential reproductive toxicant. Some chemicals' effects during pregnancy remain understudied, so recommendations continue to evolve.

Check your private health insurance policies for maternity coverage and review your workplace maternity and paternity leave policies to plan financially and logistically.

Investigate daycare options in your area, as some facilities have waitlists of up to 24 months. Early research helps you secure placement and plan your return-to-work timeline.

Discuss carrier screening with your doctor to assess your risk of passing on inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis. This information helps you make informed reproductive decisions.