So you've gone through the thinking and planning stage and decided to go for it and try for a baby! When trying to conceive it's worth considering and getting expert advice on the following areas, to aid the process says Joanna Puczkowski, life coach of Horizons Regained.

Exercise and fitness

Get advice before you fall pregnant. That way, you can plan a suitable exercise regime to suit your needs. For example, this doesn't necessarily mean a full work out at the gym but perhaps simply incorporating some form of regular exercise into your daily routine such as walking and taking the stairs rather than the lift. By getting the right advice and discussing the most suitable type of exercise for the different stages of your pregnancy, you will be preparing your body to be at its best!

Folic Acid

Research has shown that taking this prior to conception and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy can help reduce the risk of Spina Bifida. Again, seek advice about taking any supplements and the types of foods you can eat which contain folic acid.

Smoking and Drinking

Understand the effects of these when trying to conceive (e.g. can alcohol hinder fertility?), as well as when you fall pregnant. Decide on any action you want to take e.g. do you need support to stop smoking?

Nutrition / Diet

Ensure you are aware of the vitamins and nutrients you need to be healthy. Seek expert advice to ensure you get the balance right, know which foods you need to avoid whilst pregnant (e.g. avoiding foods such as unpasteurised cheeses, pate etc because of harmful bacteria) and understand the impact on a baby's development if you're on a diet.

Avoid / Eliminate Stress

Stress has an impact in the ability to conceive so assess your current situation and write down any sources of stress (e.g. do you have a stressful job / work long hours etc). Consider what action you can take to tackle each one.

Once you've become pregnant, especially if it's your first time you're bound to feel joy along with some feelings of anxiety and anticipation. To help deal with this, it's best to create an action plan where you can define your pregnancy into smaller steps and focus on each. For example:

Trimester 1 - You will want to focus on antenatal care, if you're working you will want to talk to your employer, check on your maternity rights etc.

Trimester 2 - Are there any special tests that you need to be taking? Prepare the nursery. Start buying clothes and necessities.

Trimester 3 - Decide on the type of birth you want, where to have the baby etc.

It's important to ask for support from family and friends throughout your pregnancy journey as you'll be undergoing a great deal of change - physically, mentally and emotionally.

To find out more about dealing with changes in your life and for help in creating a life that you love, visit www.horizonsregained.com