You’ve decided to take the plunge. Now what?

Deciding to have a baby before it actually happens is a great opportunity. Take advantage of having the chance to prepare yourself – and your body – for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby at the end of it. Go though our pre-pregnancy checklist and get a good, healthy start.

Stop Smoking. If you have this nasty habit, now would be a good time to kick it. It takes time and effort to quit. Let future baby be a major motivation. The effects of smoking have been proven to be bad for buns in the oven. If your family has a history of allergies or asthma, smoking seals the deal for your baby to get it too.

Convince him to stop smoking. Second hand smoke is harmful to pregnant women and babies. If you’re ready to stop, it would be a good idea to go through the transition together. Again, a new human being around can be good motivation.

Exercise. Women who weigh too much or too little can have problems conceiving. Start a moderate exercise routine you can carry-out through pregnancy. Pregnant women who exercise moderately have less birth complications, lose post-pregnancy weight faster and generally produce healthier babies.

Control your caffeine. Too much caffeine intake has been linked to higher risk of miscarriage. Coffee, tea and cola drinks are usual caffeine culprits. Limit intake to no more than two cups of coffee a day.

Switch to a prenatal vitamin. Yes, even if the stick hasn’t turned pink yet, you need extra folic acid found in vitamin supplements for pregnant women. Folic acid levels should be sufficient even before baby comes – to ensure little he or she develops a healthy nervous system. Eat more leafy greens too!

Find an OB-GYN you trust. Ask for recommendations. Check credentials and reputation. Is the doc someone you can get along with and easily talk to? Look for a doctor near your home. Proximity is important.

Have a thorough check-up. Make sure you have no medical issues that need to be addressed before baby comes. Have your MD review all prescription and OTC drugs you take regularly. Anything you should avoid now that you’re trying to have a baby? Consider genetic testing – if that’s for you. Update your vaccinations – there are some you cannot take while already pregnant.

Do some math. Call your insurance provider and get the full rundown on how they can cover prenatal care and hospital birth. You may want to talk to a financial planner about childcare or other expenses you need to anticipate.

Think about work. If you or your husband decide that one of you needs to stay home with a baby for the early years, start making plans and examining your options.

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