Pregnancy

[HM]

My husband & I are going to start trying for a baby in the next few months. However, I am vegetarian and we're a bit concerned that the baby won't get the vitamins it needs. Obviously if I fall pregnant I'll discuss this with the doctor, but does anyone know if there's anything I should take before trying to conceive? Any tips would be appreciated. Thanks

[smudge]

If I were you, I would only take advice from your Doc, Pharmicist, then Midwife - they'll know best. Wishing you every success & happiness in starting your little family - ah!

[jills]

I'd say speak to your doc BEFORE you try to get pregnant and ask him what you've asked here. Then you'll know you've done everything poss to optimise your chances of getting pregnant and giving baby all it needs. Like any other woman trying to conceive you'd be advised to take folic acid. Good luck to you both. Had baby No. 1 (Charlie) last September and it's the best thing we ever did.

[andy hughes]

I was going to say follic acid - as my eldest daughter progresses with grandchild number 2 (yippee!) she has a course underway. Other answers are best - consult your GP a.s.a.p. and get advice, then ignore all the 'old wives' tales' which will be coming your way!

[vittoria]

As well as folic acid, bear in mind if you need an iron supplement, Floradix is a vegetarian iron supplement, very easy on the stomach.

[tracymort]

you may find this group of some help - http://www.foresight-preconception.org.uk/ good luck!

[Zara Tatem]

I know several couples who have followed the advice of Foresight (by taking their supplements, changing their diet and lifestyle, etc.) and have been very pleased with the results - i.e. getting pregnant! The father-to-be's fertility is as much an issue as your own, and if you can afford it, it's really worthwhile to invest in the supplements. If funds are a real problem, try cutting out fags, booze, caffeine and as many food additives as possible for a good few months. Sounds dull but at least you can practise the you-know-what!

[HM]

Thanks for your suggestions everyone - much appreciated!