“We’re ready to try for a baby. Should I start taking anything?”
If you’re asking this—great! That question alone shows you’re taking a thoughtful, healthy approach to pregnancy.
At Flowrence Hospital, we always remind couples that a healthy pregnancy doesn’t start with a positive test—it starts with preparation. Two of the most important (yet often overlooked) steps in this preparation are folic acid and vaccinations.
Let’s understand why they matter—especially before you conceive.
Folic acid: The tiny tablet with a massive impact
- Folic acid is a type of B vitamin (B9) that helps your body make healthy new cells. For women planning pregnancy, it does something even more powerful—it helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
- The neural tube forms the baby’s brain and spinal cord. It develops within the first 28 days of pregnancy—often before many women even know they’re pregnant.
That’s why we recommend starting folic acid at least 1–2 months before conception.
Dosage: Usually, 400 mcg per day. Higher doses may be needed if you have diabetes, obesity, or a previous baby with a neural tube defect (doctor will guide)
- Continue folic acid throughout the first trimester
At our pregnancy care hospital, we see healthier early scan reports in mothers who started folic acid early. It’s a small effort with a lifelong impact.
Vaccinations: Your immunity, your baby’s shield
Pregnancy suppresses your immune system. And some infections that may seem minor to you could have serious consequences for your baby. That’s why vaccination before pregnancy matters.
Key vaccines before pregnancy:
Rubella (German measles):
If caught during pregnancy, rubella can cause miscarriage or serious birth defects. A simple MMR shot 1 month before trying can prevent this.
Hepatitis B:
This protects both you and your baby from liver infections and transmission during delivery.
Tetanus & Diphtheria:
Often given during pregnancy, but can be pre-planned for smoother scheduling.
COVID-19 (updated dose if needed):
Still relevant—pregnancy increases the risk of severe complications from COVID.
All vaccines should be discussed with your gynecologist and planned based on your personal history.
At our gynecologist hospital in Rajkot, we run regular pre-pregnancy panels to check your immunity status and tailor your plan.
Can I get vaccinated during pregnancy too?
Yes, but some vaccines (like rubella) are not safe during pregnancy and must be taken in advance. Others—like the flu vaccine and Tdap—are safe and recommended during pregnancy.
Planning in advance helps space out doses and avoid unnecessary panic once you're expecting.
One tablet. A few shots. A lifetime of protection.
You’re preparing for a new life. And these early steps are your way of saying, “I’m ready.”
Whether you’re a first-time mom or planning again after a gap, folic acid and vaccinations are part of your baby’s first defense system.
Start early. Stay safe. And always ask questions—our team is here to walk you through it all.
Flowrence Hospital – Prevention starts before pregnancy.
Pre-conception advice from the best gynecologist hospital in Rajkot
Safe vaccination planning at our expert gynecologist hospital in Rajkot
Trusted, holistic support at your nearby pregnancy care hospital