TTC Ladies: What You Should Know Now

Trying to conceive can be one of the most stressful times ever. I know from experience. The days drag on waiting for positive results and with each negative pregnancy test you take it can sink you into a depression. Clomid, Gonal, IUI...head spinning. Bring on the stress, junk food, tons of sweets (guilty), or whatever comforts you.

But here's the thing -- the better you take care of yourself, the better chances you will have to conceive.

There are things you can do now, while TTC, that will help you with conception as well as into your pregnancy.

I was reading the infamous What to Expect When You're Expecting (I know some of you aren't a fan), but there is a section at the start of the book that offers information women should know before they get pregnant.

• Start taking folic acid now. It helps prevent birth defects once you are pregnant.
• Ease off the meat and cheese if this is part of your every day meal. They say the more meat and cheese in your diet before you get pregnant, the higher the chances you have of getting morning sickness. I have it -- morning, noon, and night -- and I wish I knew this might have helped.

My friend's doctor offered up this advice:

• Start exercising. Even if you aren't a fan of the gym, getting your blood flowing with some cardio, yoga, or even just a walk around the block helps your body get baby ready.
• If you are a smoker, start cutting back now. If you ever tried to quit, you know cold turkey is hard. Start easing off now (ask your partner to do so too), so you can transition better later.

Have any other tips to add to the list? Share!