Preconception care: tobacco, alcohol and caffeine
It’s well known that refraining from drinking and smoking during pregnancy is essential. What is less known and understood is the fact that during the preconception period, say three months before conceiving, your lifestyle can also have a big impact on your future unborn child. An outstanding example of this principle is the need for an adequate intake of folic acid. In this article we look at smoking before pregnancy and exactly how it can have a detrimental impact, as well as issues around other lifestyle choices, for example whether it’s OK to consume caffeine before pregnancy, and sensible precautions around the consumption of alcohol and other recreational drugs.