Planning a Pregnancy? Read This First!

Find an OBGYN You Trust

Choosing the right OBGYN is a crucial step in your pre-pregnancy preparation. Recommendations from friends or family can be helpful, or you can ask your primary care physician for a referral. You can also find a gynecologist near you through Leumit’s directory or by calling our customer service hotline.

It’s essential to select a gynecologist with whom you feel comfortable and whose approach aligns with your personal health values.

At your first appointment, your doctor will review your medical history and may recommend routine tests such as:

• Pap smear
• Breast examination
• Blood tests
  They may also prescribe folic acid to support fetal development.

Start Taking Folic Acid

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is essential for the proper development of the fetal brain and nervous system. Since these organs begin forming very early in pregnancy, it’s best to start taking folic acid at least three months before conception.

Folic acid is also found in:

Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
Broccoli & Brussels sprouts
Parsley & red peppers
Nuts & avocados
Whole grains & fortified bread
Organ meats (such as liver)

Undergo Recommended Genetic Testing

Each cell in our body contains 23 pairs of chromosomes that store genetic information. In addition to determining traits like eye color, intelligence, and body structure, they also carry inherited diseases. Many people unknowingly carry genetic disorders, which may only be detected through specialized testing.

You can read more about genetic testing here. 

Review Your Medications

If you take regular medications, consult your OBGYN to ensure they are safe during pregnancy. Your doctor can:

Confirm whether your current medications are pregnancy-safe
Recommend alternative treatments if needed

Get Essential Blood Tests & Vaccinations

Before pregnancy, blood tests can check for antibodies against toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus (CMV):

• Toxoplasmosis: If you don’t have antibodies, avoid contact with cat feces and wear gloves for gardening.
• CMV: This virus spreads through saliva, urine, blood, and other bodily fluids. It can resemble a mild flu but may pose risks during pregnancy. To minimize exposure, wash hands frequently and maintain hygiene when around sick individuals or young children.

:Additional Vaccination Recommendations

Your gynecologist may also recommend checking immunity for:

Rubella (German measles)
Hepatitis B
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Measles
Most Israeli women of childbearing age were vaccinated against Rubella, Hepatitis B, and Measles during childhood. The Varicella vaccine was added to routine vaccinations in 2008, so women born earlier may require additional vaccination.

If you need any of these vaccines, wait at least one month before trying to conceive.

Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes

To give yourself and your baby the best start, consider these lifestyle adjustments:

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of:

• Preterm birth
•  Low birth weight
• Birth defects
• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

The pre-pregnancy period is the perfect time to quit smoking and improve your baby’s health.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Being overweight or underweight can impact fertility and pregnancy health. If needed, consult a nutritionist to reach an optimal weight before conceiving.

Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Moderate exercise can help your body adapt to pregnancy. Consider:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Yoga

Reduce Caffeine Intake

High caffeine consumption may:

• Reduce fertility
• Increase the risk of miscarriage
• Affect fetal development

Limit caffeine intake to no more than two cups per day (including coffee, tea, sodas, and chocolate).

Visit a Dentist

Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the risk of gum disease and cavities. Taking care of any dental issues before pregnancy helps maintain good oral health throughout.