Most couples, in their excitement (or urgency rather) to have a baby, seem to take for granted that there is more to conceiving than just having sexual intercourse during ovulation.

Doctors suggest that instead of just trying and trying to get pregnant, you and your spouse should go see your doctor for a reproductive and general health check-up. Etickr.com likens this "preparation" to preparing your car for a trip: You need to get each part checked to make sure everything is working.

Experts recommend following the 3 PeriConception Steps To A Healthy Pregnancy. This will not only increase your chances of getting pregnant, but improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy and delivering a healthy baby.

Step 1: More than 3 Months Prior to Pregnancy

Complete the PeriConception Interview

Check your reproductive and general health

Find a good obstetrician or a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist now (Do not wait until your pregnancy is confirmed)

Occupational history to check for occupational hazards

Get examined and do the following tests:

Sperm analysis to check his fertility

Vaginal and cervical smear examination for the screening of sexually transmitted infections/disorders

Blood tests for: rubella, anemia, HIV, and genetic screening of autosomal and X-linked recessive carrier status and recently for predictive gene diagnostic tests.Prior exposure to toxoplasma, cytomegalovirus, parvovirus, herpes

Any additional tests if necessary

Get immunized for Rubella if not immune

Begin periconceptional multivitamin supplementation, especially folic acid supplementation

Begin a healthy diet and moderate exercise (both of you)

He should also stay away from any potential hazards and keep his testes "cool"

Step 1: 0-3 Months Prior to Pregnancy

Try to reach an optimal BMI

Avoid active or passive smoking, no alcohol, or any unnecessary drugs. Limit coffee to 1-2 cups a day

Follow the menstrual cycle tracker and measure your basal body temperatures for detection of hormonal dysfunction (and treatment, if necessary) and determination of the optimal day of conception to make love and achieve conception on the optimal day (2-3 days prior and the day of ovulation).

Continue periconceptional multivitamin supplementation.

See a dentist and check dental status.

Continue moderate physical exercise.

Step 3: Early Pregnancy

Call your doctor for any further examinations and/or treatments

Early pregnancy confirmation, if necessary blood hCG measurements

Postconceptional multivitamin supplementation.

Avoidance of teratogenic and other risks.

Early ultrasound to evaluate pregnancy

Source: babymed.com