Seeing a doctor before conceiving gives your doctor a chance to help you reach your ideal weight before the pregnancy. While its important to gain enough weight during pregnancy to ensure your baby's proper development, starting out with excess weight before you conceive can put you at a higher risk of developing diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy. A doctor's visit prior to conceiving also provides a chance to get any other health problems under control such as diabetes, epilepsy and high blood pressure. You should also talk with your doctor about any immunizations you may need before getting pregnant, for example vaccinations for rubella or chicken pox. The United States Public Health Services say women of child bearing age need at least 400 micrograms of folic acid a day.
Folic acid is a B vitamin and is found in green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans and citrus fruits.
Folic acid reduces the chances of neural tube birth defects according to the March of Dimes. Talk with your doctor about getting regular exercise, and about how much is appropriate at different times throughout your pregnancy. ACOG says you should not, however, exercise to lose weight while you are pregnant. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and illegal drugs. Consult carefully with your doctor about prescription medication if you are taking any.