What you can do before trying to get pregnant
From former model to nutrition consultant, Michelle den Hollander flew around the world from shoot to show, but also experienced the struggles of having the ‘right’ measurements. This brought her to where she is now, and on Amayzine she shares tips.
Maybe you have questions after my story about my desire to have children. Questions that I also encountered myself. I will discuss those with you. You know that a healthy lifestyle is important to me. Sufficient exercise and sports, a healthy diet, and mental peace. This is also, or perhaps especially, important in this situation. Stress can be a significant cause of PCOS, just like an unhealthy diet.
Let's start at the beginning, the moment you and your partner decide to get pregnant. Then you can already take the first steps. How does your cycle work, for example? It's quite handy to know when your ovulation is approximately and when you should have sex. Or when you should get your period or take a test. I personally use the app Flow to keep track of my cycle. It indicates when you should get your period and when you have the highest chance of getting pregnant.
Side note: if you are still using contraception and stop, it may take some time for your menstruation to start and become regular. If this remains irregular, contact your doctor to discuss it and make an appointment with a gynecologist if necessary.
What also helps: quitting smoking, if you do that. Pay attention to alcohol if there is a chance you might be pregnant. Smoking and alcohol reduce fertility in both men and women. Besides looking for information, you can already take some steps. Being fit during your pregnancy is also nice and of course important if you want to get pregnant.
So take a look at the lifestyle of you and your partner. Maybe there are some areas for improvement. Are you exercising enough and taking moments to relax and clear your mind? Are you drinking enough water and getting enough vegetables? It also helps to avoid refined sugars and trans fats as much as possible.
It may sound a bit drastic, but it really doesn't have to be. Just step by step. And a little help is also beneficial; I certainly like to do that.
Every two weeks, Michelle shares tips on Amayzine about healthy living, know-how about healthy eating, and her own story. Already curious? Read up on Michelle’s Good Food.
