Wanting a child is one of the most special decisions in life. Yet many women (and couples) do not realize that pregnancy begins months before conception. The body is quietly preparing: eggs mature, hormones change, and the body lays the building blocks needed to create a new life.
Scientific research shows that the first 1000 days, from conception to the second year of life, are crucial for a child's long-term health. That is precisely why it is important for women (and their partners) to be mindful of nutrition, lifestyle, and supplements even while they are trying to conceive.
Why preparation is so important when trying to conceive
During the preconception phase, the three months before conception, the female body undergoes major changes. Eggs mature over a period of approximately 90 to 120 days and are influenced by nutrition, hormones, and lifestyle during that time. Everything that happens during this period affects the quality of the eggs and, therefore, the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
In addition, the hormonal system prepares for a new rhythm. Stress, sleep deprivation, or nutritional deficiencies can disrupt this process, reducing the chances of regular ovulation or successful implantation. Good preparation therefore means: giving the body the time and support it needs to come into balance.
When to stop taking contraception when trying to conceive?
A frequently asked question is: “How long in advance should I stop taking contraception if I want to get pregnant?” The answer depends on the method of contraception:
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The pill, contraceptive ring, or contraceptive patch: ovulation can return immediately after stopping, but the body often needs 1 to 3 months to restore its natural cycle*.
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Hormone IUD (Mirena, Kyleena) or implant: ovulation can occur quickly after removal, but it can take several months for the hormones to completely leave the body.
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Copper IUD: because it does not release hormones, fertility returns almost immediately after removal.
That is why it is often advised to stop taking hormonal contraception at least three months before trying to conceive. This gives the body time to switch back to its natural cycle and allows egg quality to recover optimally.
How long before pregnancy should you start taking supplements?
Because eggs take about 90 days to mature, it is wise to start taking supplements at least three months before the desired pregnancy. This gives the body a chance to build up the right nutrients and support hormonal balance.
A deficiency in important vitamins and minerals can have a direct impact on egg quality, implantation, and the embryo's initial cell divisions. At the same time, too high a dosage can be taxing on the body. The key lies in balance and bioavailability: exactly the right substances, in the right amount, in the best absorbable form.
What foods help prepare the body for pregnancy?
A healthy lifestyle and diet are the foundation for any desire to conceive. Nutrition provides the building blocks from which both the mother's and the baby's bodies are built.
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Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress. Free radicals can cause damage to cells and DNA, affecting fertility.
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Wholegrains and legumes provide B vitamins and fiber that support hormonal and energy balance.
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Healthy fats, such as those found in oily fish, nuts, and seeds, provide omega-3 fatty acids that are important for hormone production and later for the development of the baby's brain and eyes.
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Iron-rich foods, such as leafy greens, legumes, and wholegrain products, help the body replenish iron stores, which are heavily drawn upon during pregnancy.
A healthy nutritional foundation is essential. Yet in practice, it can be difficult to get all the necessary nutrients in the right amounts every day. Supplements can help.
Which vitamins and minerals are important when trying to conceive?
Folate (active folic acid)
Essential for the early development of the nervous system and the formation of the neural tube. The bioavailable form, 5-MTHF (Quatrefolic®), is absorbed directly by the body and is also effective for women with an MTHFR mutation.
Omega 3 (DHA & EPA)
Important for the development of the baby's brain and eyes and supports the mother's hormonal balance.
Magnesium & vitamin B6
Contribute to normal energy metabolism, reduce fatigue, and support a stable hormonal balance.
Calcium & vitamin D
Very important for bone building and the development of bones and teeth. Many women in the Netherlands have a vitamin D deficiency, especially during the winter months.
Zinc & selenium
Support fertility and cell division and protect against oxidative stress.
Coenzyme Q10
Plays a role in energy supply in the mitochondria of eggs and can support egg quality. Especially important for women aged 35 and over who are trying to conceive.
The first 12 weeks of pregnancy
As soon as conception has taken place, 12 crucial and decisive weeks begin. During this phase, all organs and the placenta are formed. This is not for nothing called the crucial phase of pregnancy.
During this period, the body has an increased need for energy and nutrients. The embryo often doubles in size each week, indicating how many cell divisions take place each day. All these cell divisions should proceed without error to maintain a healthy pregnancy and develop a healthy child. This requires good support with the right vitamins and minerals.
Why choose premium pregnancy supplements like MomPwdr?
Many standard pregnancy supplements are a one-size-fits-all approach with general dosages and often synthetic forms of vitamins. This may seem practical and affordable, but can lead to deficiencies or even the accumulation of certain substances.
MomPwdr is different:
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Tailored to each trimester: a different composition for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimester, exactly what mother and baby need during that phase.
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All the important vitamins and minerals in one package: multivitamin, folate, magnesium + calcium, zinc + selenium, and vegan omega 3 (DHA & EPA), etc.
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Only bioavailable forms: such as Quatrefolic® folate and magnesium bisglycinate, which are directly absorbable and effective.
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Scientifically based and developed by experts
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Pure and safe: independently tested for PFAS.
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Vegan and free from unnecessary additives.
With MomPwdr supplements, women do not have to figure out which supplements they need or combine individual bottles. The package provides peace of mind, clarity, and above all, the assurance that both mother and child receive the right support in every phase of pregnancy.
Preparing the body for pregnancy is a process that begins months before the positive test. By stopping contraception in good time, investing in a healthy diet and lifestyle, and choosing high-quality, bioavailable supplements, women lay the best foundation for a healthy pregnancy and a good start for their child.
TIP: Are you ready and do you want to get pregnant? Then use our "calculate ovulation" tool and accurately calculate your personal fertile days! The most reliable calculation of your ovulation!
Sources:
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Agarwal A. et al. (2006). Role of oxidative stress in female reproduction. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 4(14).
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Barker DJP. (2007). The origins of the developmental origins theory. Journal of Internal Medicine, 261(5), 412–417.
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Bentov Y. & Casper RF. (2013). The aging oocyte—can mitochondrial function be improved? Fertility and Sterility, 99(1), 18–22.
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Bentov Y. et al. (2014). Mitochondrial nutrients to improve infertility treatment. Fertility and Sterility, 101(3), 599–606.
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EFSA (2010). Scientific opinions on DHA, magnesium, vitamin B6, selenium and zinc. EFSA Journal.
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Gluckman PD. et al. (2008). In utero and early-life conditions on adult health. New England Journal of Medicine, 359(1), 61–73.
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NHS (2021). Contraception methods. National Health Service UK.
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NIH (2021). Folate – Health Professional Fact Sheet. Office of Dietary Supplements, U.S. National Institutes of Health.
