Fertilidad
Getting healthy before pregnancy
Revisado: 4 de octubre de 2026
Solo en inglés por ahoraA few steps before you conceive, such as taking folic acid and reviewing your medicines and vaccines, can help both you and a future baby.
Why the months before matter
Your health before pregnancy affects how the pregnancy goes. A baby's brain and spine start to form in the first few weeks, often before you know you are pregnant. About half of all pregnancies are not planned, so these steps are useful for anyone who could get pregnant. The US Office on Women's Health suggests starting to prepare at least 3 months before you get pregnant.
Folic acid
Folic acid is a form of the vitamin folate. It helps prevent serious birth defects of the brain and spine (neural tube defects), such as spina bifida. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises everyone who could become pregnant to get 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, and to start at least 1 month before trying. Keep taking it until you are 12 weeks pregnant. It comes in supplements and in some fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals. Ask a doctor before you start if you have diabetes, take medicine for epilepsy or HIV, or if you, the baby's biological father, a past pregnancy or either family has been affected by a neural tube defect. You may need a higher dose.
A check-up before you try
A visit to a doctor or nurse before you try is a good chance to review your health. Tell them about every medicine you take, including medicines you buy yourself, herbal remedies and supplements. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own. Check that your vaccinations are up to date. If you have a long-term condition such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy, ask how best to manage it before and during pregnancy.
Everyday habits
Stop smoking and drinking alcohol before you try to get pregnant. A weight that is too low or too high can make it harder to get pregnant, so ask for support if you need it. Avoid harmful chemicals at work and at home, and stay away from cat and rodent droppings, which can spread infection. Partners can help their own health by drinking less, stopping smoking, eating well and reducing stress.
This is general information. If you have a health condition or take regular medicines, talk to a doctor or nurse before you try to get pregnant.