Most people think about what they should or should not do once they become pregnant, and not many people realize that to have a healthy pregnancy, you need to begin preparations before you become pregnant. A part of preparing for pregnancy is avoiding things that might make it harder for you to conceive or may be harmful to you or your baby when you conceive. Here are a few things that every woman trying to conceive should avoid.

Avoiding the Dentist

Dental care and regular visits to your dentist are more important than ever when you are planning to become pregnant, so do not skip dental health. Gum disease in pregnant women can increase the risk of premature delivery, and the best time to take care of it is before you become pregnant and not after.

Sitting Around

Postponing starting a fitness routine or trying to lose weight until you become pregnant is ill-advised. It is important to start exercising and lose all the weight you need to lose before you become pregnant. This allows you to be in shape at the start of your pregnancy, a critical time in the baby’s development.

Eating Fish

Not all fish is bad for you when you are trying to conceive, but those high in mercury are. Some fish like tuna are high in mercury, which can be harmful to a growing baby, and mercury can remain in your body for a long time. You can eat low-mercury fish, such as salmon, before and during your pregnancy because they are a good source of protein and healthy fats.

Unhealthy Food

Foods high in trans-fats, such as fast and processed foods, can contribute to weight gain and affect your fertility, potentially increasing the time you need before you become pregnant. Include healthy fats in your diet, such as those found in nuts, avocados, and olive oil.

Feeling Stressed

Stress can affect your chance of becoming pregnant, but it is impossible to avoid it entirely. Trying to conceive and waiting for a pregnancy to happen can also be extremely frustrating and add to your stress. If you can, avoid life situations that you know will cause you to stress, and learn techniques, such as yoga and deep breathing, that can help you cope with it.