Thinking about having a baby?

The NHS says around nine out of 10 couples conceive within a year of trying and around half of those who have been trying for a year will conceive the following year. The remaining women may need medical help to conceive.

Remember all this advice applies not only to women trying to get pregnant but also to their male partners.

A healthy pregnancy

There is a lot you can do to make sure you and are healthy and prepared for having a baby. Things you might want to think about include:

• keeping a healthy weight
• eating a healthy diet
• foods you should avoid or be careful with before and during your pregnancy
• when to start taking folic acid and vitamin D
• if you or your partner smoke
• how much alcohol you drink
• how active you are
• what to do if you have a long term medical condition.

Chat with your GP

Your GP can give you advice about trying to get pregnant. You might want to talk about:

• vaccinations: check your immunisations are up to date particularly rubella (German measles) and varicella (the virus which causes chickenpox and shingles).

• contraception: certain types of contraception take time to stop working.

Maternity allowances and benefits

You may want to find out what benefits you will be entitled to if and when you stop work to have a baby.