And Baby Makes Three

THERE8217;S probably nothing more unnerving for an adult than having a baby, especially in a DINK set-up. Though visiting kin will eventual...

THERE8217;S probably nothing more unnerving for an adult than having a baby, especially in a DINK set-up. Though visiting kin will eventually come into the picture, the crucial first months are largely about individual decisions and gut feelings.

What8217;s the key to a healthy baby?
A healthy mother. From embryo to foetus to birth, the health of the mother is crucial to the health of the child.

How do I prepare?
8216;8216;A normal couple without unhealthy habits do not need to make lifestyle changes,8217;8217; says Dr Indrani Ganguly, senior consultant in gynaecology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. But if you drink or smoke, quit before you try to get pregnant. Some medicines and ailments also impact the baby.

Since you probably won8217;t know if you8217;re pregnant for the first three or four weeks8212;the time when your baby8217;s major organs and structures are forming8212;experts advise that you behave as if you8217;re already carrying a child when trying to conceive.

I8217;m overweight or underweight. Does it matter?
Try to reach a healthy weight before conceiving. Women who are very overweight or underweight may have more problems with the baby. A weight-loss diet during pregnancy or in the run-up is a complete no no.

Any other taboos?
8216;8216;Avoid exposure to toxic substances and chemicals at work and at home. Even second-hand smoke increases risk of miscarriage or a baby with a low birth weight,8217;8217; says Ganguly. 8216;8216;Alcohol and illegal drugs such as cocaine can cause birth defects.8217;8217;

When does the doc come into the picture?
Get a check-up before you try to conceive. Conditions like diabetes require intensive pre-pregnancy consultations.

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DADDY DOs

8226; Discuss your presence at birth with your partner. Most mums-to-be are calmed and reassured by the presence of their partners
8226; Your most important role is as supporter. Don8217;t be shocked, though, if you are shouted or sworn at
8226; If you8217;ve discussed the labour, you can communicate her needs and wishes
8226; The simplest things, such as having cool drinks ready or massaging her back, can be real morale boosters

When do I stop taking birth control pills?
8216;8216;Usually, you should stop birth control pills at least one month before you want to conceive. Then menstruation resumes and your cycle can be tracked,8217;8217; says Ganguly. 8216;8216;However, it will not hurt the baby if you get pregnant right after going off the pill.8217;8217;

And genetic diseases?
Certain conditions make genetic evaluation essential:
8226; The older the mother is8212;especially over 358212;the higher the risk for a baby with Down Syndrome or other genetic problems
8226; Indians and Middle Easterners need to be checked for sickle-cell disease and thalassaemia

Any other tests in the run-up period?
8226; Check for sexually transmitted diseases HIV, syphilis and treat gonorrhea and chlymadia before pregnancy
8226; You need an MMR booster shot against measles, mumps and rubella at least a month before you conceive
8226; If you8217;ve never had chicken pox, get two shots at least a month before pregnancy
8226; You might need a set of hepatitis B vaccines if you have not had them before