Thinking about getting pregnant can quietly turn into a lot of tabs open, a lot of opinions, and a lot of “am I already behind?” energy. This quick, no-overwhelm FAQ covers the most common questions people have before they start trying—health, timing, planning, and what actually matters early on.

If you want a deeper, step-by-step breakdown, you can read our full guide on what to do before you get pregnant. But if you’re short on time, you’re in the right place!

What should I do before trying to get pregnant?

Schedule a preconception checkup, start a prenatal vitamin with folic acid, and review any medications or supplements you take. Then focus on the basics that move the needle: sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress support.

How far in advance should I prepare for pregnancy?

Aim for about 3 months before trying. That gives you time to adjust meds, update vaccines, get labs done, and build nutrient stores (especially folate).

Do I need a preconception checkup?

Not required, but it’s one of the highest-leverage steps you can take. It’s where you get medication guidance, screening recommendations, and a plan based on your health history.

What happens at a preconception appointment?

You’ll talk through medical history, current meds/supplements, lifestyle, and any concerns. Your provider may recommend vaccines, bloodwork, or genetic screening depending on your situation.

What tests should I do before getting pregnant?

Common ones include STI screening, thyroid labs, immunity checks (like MMR/varicella), and genetic carrier screening. Your provider will tailor this to your health history and risk factors.

When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?

Start at least 3 months before trying if you can. Folic acid matters early—often before you even know you’re pregnant.

How much folic acid do I need?

Many people are advised to get at least 400 mcg daily pre-pregnancy, but your provider may recommend more depending on your history. (Don’t guess—ask.)

How much caffeine is okay when trying to conceive?

A common guideline is to keep caffeine around 200 mg/day (roughly one 12-oz coffee). If you’re stressed and barely sleeping, caffeine isn’t the villain—sleep deprivation is.

Should I stop drinking alcohol while trying?

Best practice is to cut back significantly or stop while trying, since early pregnancy can happen before you know it. If you drink, keep it occasional and intentional—not a daily default.

Should my partner prep too?

Yes. Sperm health is impacted by sleep, stress, smoking, alcohol, heat exposure (hot tubs), and diet. This is a team sport.

How do I track ovulation without going insane?

Start simple: track cycle length + use ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) for a few cycles. If you like data, add basal body temperature (BBT) to confirm patterns—but don’t turn your bedroom into a lab.

How long does it usually take to get pregnant?

For couples under 35, many conceive within 6 months, but timelines vary widely. If you’re over 35, have irregular cycles, or have been trying for a while, ask your provider when to escalate.

When should I stop birth control?

It depends. Fertility can return quickly after IUD removal; hormonal methods can take a month or a few to regulate. Ask your provider based on your method and timeline.

What’s the biggest mistake people make before pregnancy?

Waiting until they’re pregnant to start planning. A little prep now reduces stress, rushed decisions, and “why didn’t anyone tell me this?” moments later.

Is it weird to build a baby registry before getting pregnant?

No—and it’s honestly smart. Some people start one early to spread out decisions and reduce mental load. (Planning beats panic.)

Want a calmer way to plan? You can build a registry gradually—on your timeline—so you’re not making 100 decisions at once later. Start your Poppyilst today.