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Preparing for pregnancy: what to do in the three months before

Preparing for pregnancy is less about doing everything right and more about getting a few things in place early — starting with folic acid, and with knowing roughly when you ovulate.

A calendar, a glass of water and a bowl of fruit on a kitchen table
Written by HelloMommy editorial teamMedically reviewed by Medical review boardUpdated Published 2 min read

Three months before you start trying

Most of what helps a pregnancy happens before it begins. Eggs mature over roughly three months, so changes you make now affect the cycle you conceive in.

  1. Start 400 µg of folic acid daily — it protects the neural tube in the first weeks, before most people know they are pregnant.
  2. Have a check-up: blood pressure, thyroid, iron, rubella immunity, and a review of any regular medication.
  3. Stop smoking and alcohol, and bring caffeine down to about one or two cups a day.
  4. Bring dental care up to date; gum disease is linked to preterm birth.

Understanding your cycle

The fertile window is the five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. Sperm can survive several days; the egg can only be fertilised for about 24 hours. Knowing roughly when you ovulate matters more than timing anything perfectly.

  • Cervical mucus becomes clear and stretchy in the days before ovulation.
  • Basal body temperature rises slightly after ovulation, confirming it happened.
  • Ovulation tests detect the LH surge, usually 24 to 36 hours before release.

The part nobody plans for

Trying to conceive can quietly take over a calendar and a mood. Decide in advance how much tracking is useful to you, agree with your partner how often you will talk about it, and keep at least one part of the month free of it.

Frequently asked questions

How long before trying should I start folic acid?

At least one month before, and ideally three. The neural tube closes in the first weeks of pregnancy, often before a test is positive.

How long does it usually take to conceive?

Around 8 in 10 couples conceive within a year. Ask for advice after six months if you are over 35, or sooner if your cycles are irregular.

Does my partner need to do anything?

Yes. Sperm take around three months to mature, so stopping smoking, reducing alcohol and avoiding heat exposure are worth starting at the same time.

Sources

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor or midwife about your own pregnancy.

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