Preconception Checklist: 6 Things That Matter More Than Ovulation Strips

Many couples start trying by stockpiling ovulation strips. From a health standpoint, these six things deserve your attention first.

1. Start folic acid 3 months early

The neural tube closes at weeks 4–6 of pregnancy — around when you first find out. So folic acid (400–800 mcg daily) should start 1–3 months before conception, not after the positive test.

2. Get a preconception check-up

Basics: blood count, thyroid (TSH), blood sugar, hepatitis B, syphilis, HIV, rubella immunity, and an up-to-date cervical screen. Add genetic counselling if there's family history.

3. Catch up on vaccines

No rubella immunity → MMR (then avoid pregnancy for a month). Never had chickenpox → consider the varicella vaccine. Few vaccines can be given during pregnancy, so now is the window.

4. Manage baseline conditions

• Thyroid issues: get TSH into the preconception target range first
• Blood sugar problems: control before pregnancy beats catch-up during it
• Long-term medications (acne drugs, some psychiatric meds): confirm plans with your doctor — never stop on your own
• Dental check: pregnancy limits dental work, so fix cavities and gum issues now

5. Lifestyle — for both of you

Quit smoking and alcohol (both partners), cap caffeine at 200mg/day, sleep regularly, aim BMI toward 18.5–24. Sperm takes ~3 months to mature — dad's homework starts early too.

6. The soft preparation

Talk it through: who's the primary carer, how careers flex, what the budget looks like. Stress itself affects conception — aligning expectations beats any supplement.

A healthy couple has roughly a 15–25% chance per cycle; conceiving within a year is normal. See a fertility specialist after 12 months of trying (6 months if over 35).