Planning your pregnancy: take the preconception check
Answer nine short questions and get your personal priority card: what to do today, what to discuss with a professional, and where you're already on track.
Based on WHO and NHS advice
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Based on the preconception advice of WHO and NHS, including 400 µg folic acid a day from at least 4 weeks before conception until week 10.
SOURCES1. WHO: Preconception care · 2. NHS: Planning your pregnancy · 3. RIVM/Thuisarts: Foliumzuur bij kinderwens
This check is a guide, not medical advice. Discuss your personal situation with your GP or midwife.
Planning your pregnancy: where do you start?
Good preparation starts about three months before trying, and the most important steps are surprisingly small: taking folic acid, stopping smoking and alcohol, and checking that your medication and vaccinations are in order. The check above puts them in order of priority for you.
Folic acid: when to start and how long to continue?
Start at least 4 weeks before conception with 400 micrograms of folic acid a day, and continue until week 10 of pregnancy. Folic acid reduces the chance of a neural tube defect. Already pregnant and not started yet? Start today anyway; it helps up to and including week 10.
When should you see your GP or midwife?
Book a preconception consultation if you take daily medication, have a chronic condition, or have questions about your weight, vaccinations or work. Even without particulars it's a useful conversation: it's free at your GP and you get advice tailored to your situation.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start taking folic acid?
At least 4 weeks before you stop contraception or start trying. Take 400 micrograms a day, and continue until week 10 of pregnancy.
Am I too late if I'm already pregnant and not taking folic acid?
Start today anyway. Taking it helps up to and including week 10, when your baby's spine closes.
How much folic acid do I need?
The standard is 400 micrograms a day. With some conditions or medicines your GP will advise a higher dose, so check at your consultation.
Should I stop the pill before trying?
You can get pregnant straight after stopping; waiting isn't necessary. Useful to know: your cycle can be irregular for the first months, which makes fertile days harder to predict.
How long does it take to get pregnant on average?
More than 8 in 10 couples under 40 who have sex regularly conceive within a year. So it's allowed to take a while without anything being wrong.
I'm 36 or older. What does that mean for trying?
Getting pregnant is perfectly possible, but it takes a little longer on average. Practical rule: discuss it with your GP after 6 months of trying instead of waiting a year.
Can I keep taking my medication?
Never stop on your own. Discuss your medication with your GP before trying: for most there's a safe alternative or an adjusted schedule.
What is a preconception consultation?
A conversation with your GP or midwife before you get pregnant, about medication, conditions, lifestyle and vaccinations. It's free, short and gives you tailored advice.
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