MO WELLNESS HUB:
PREPARE FOR PREGNANCY:
A NATUROPATH’S GUIDE TO PRECONCEPTION HEALTH
August 14th, 2025
Preparing for pregnancy goes beyond just conception, when we start to think about conceiving, we like to allow a minimum of six months to optimise preconception through nutrition, lifestyle, and naturopathic support to build those healthy foundations for both mother and baby. With six months of preconception care we can enhance fertility and improves pregnancy outcomes.
Nutritional Foundations
Nutrition plays such an important role in our reproductive health. A diet that’s rich in nutrient-dense, whole foods can support hormonal balance, egg quality, and overall fertility.
Healthy fats or omega-3 fatty acids which are found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, support hormone production and help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Protein from plant-based or animal sources supports overall cell growth and development.
Folate-rich foods are essential for foetal neural tube development found in dark leafy greens, lentils, avocado, and citrus fruits.
Iron and zinc are crucial minerals for ovulation and implantation and can be found in grass-fed meats, legumes, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate.
Reduce refined sugars, trans fats, and processed foods which contribute to inflammation and hormonal imbalances.
Limit caffeine to one cup of coffee per day, before midday.
Invest in a water filter, if possible, to lower exposure to toxins.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Stress can drive inflammation, disrupt hormone production and ovulation. Nourishing the nervous system can balance our stress hormones.
Restorative sleep of a minimum of 8 hours each night will support hormone production and overall health. Practice healthy sleep habits like exposure to morning sunlight, limiting blue light exposure at night, and going to bed before 9.30pm.
Gentle movement like walking, stretching, or yoga, helps to improve circulation to our reproductive organs.
Reduce environmental toxins as exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in plastics, non-stick pans, cosmetics, skin care products, hair dyes, pesticides, perfumes and household cleaners can interfere negatively with fertility.
Tracking your cycle can allow you to deeply understand your ovulation patterns and can help you identify the most fertile window for conception, this is effectively done through basal body temperature tracking and cervical mucus, as ovulation apps can be unpredictable.
Pathology Testing
A crucial component of preconception care, providing insights into overall health and fertility. Comprehensive blood tests can assess key markers such as nutrient levels, thyroid function, blood sugar levels, and hormone balance – all of which play essential roles in conception and a healthy pregnancy.
Identifying and addressing deficiencies or imbalances prior to conceiving can optimise reproductive health.
An end note…
Preconception care is about nourishing the body, mind, and spirit to create the best environment for a healthy pregnancy. By focusing on nutrient-rich foods, mindful lifestyle choices, and holistic support, we can enhance fertility and increase the chances of a healthy conception and pregnancy journey.
Working with a naturopath can help tailor a preconception plan to your specific needs, empowering you to enter pregnancy feeling strong, balanced, and well-prepared for the beautiful journey ahead.
Article by Ipswich Student Naturopath Abby Dale
Abby Dale is a clinical Naturopath student specialising in women’s and children’s health who believes in the power of a holistic approach, viewing each individual as a whole.
Abby weaves together the physical, emotional, and environmental aspects of a person’s well-being, creating treatments as unique as their journey. Abby’s aim is to provide personalised care that restores harmony to the body and nurtures overall vitality.