Several months before you plan to conceive peep into your life style, to see if you have any habits such as
smoking, drinking alcohol or using drugs (even oral contraceptive pills). Most could harm your foetus as they may affect the foetus especially in the first few weeks (as the foetal organs start developing). If you have any metabolic diseases like diabetes it should be well under control.

Eat a nutritious diet - lots of fresh fruits & vegetables & whole grain breads & cereals. Take 400 micrograms [0.4mgs] of folic acid. This can prevent birth defects that may occur early in pregnancy.

Exercise regularly by walking for 30-40 Mts. for 4-5 times a week. If you have not been practicing earlier start now. In addition try to do pelvic floor exercises.

Quit smoking. Avoid dangerous substances - Drinking alcohol at any time during pregnancy can cause brain damage & other birth defects in the foetus. Stop illegal drugs. Do not take over the counter drugs even aspirin.
Avoid heavy intake of caffeine [equivalent to 3 cups of coffee] as it may cause an abortion. Reduce coffee to 1-2 cups/day. Tea & soft drinks contain only half the amount of caffeine when compared to a serving of coffee.

How much weight should you gain?
If you were at a healthy weight before pregnancy you can gain 25 lbs. If you are over weight you can gain only 15lbs. If you are a thin woman you can safely gain 30 - 35 lbs.

Common discomforts during pregnancy :
Sore breasts may be present in the early weeks of pregnancy. This subsides as pregnancy advances.

What to do :
Use a properly fitted bra with good support.
In preparation to breast-feed start wearing nursing bras during the last week of pregnancy. If nipples are retracted while bathing you can gently draw then out. If not consult your doctor.

Constipation :
Constipation is common during pregnancy due to the slow movement of food through the digestive system. Avoid constipation by eating a high fibre diet and drinking plenty of liquid at least 8 glasses of water.

Back Ache :
Back ache is a common problem during pregnancy as the growing uterus puts strain on the lower back.
To prevent or relieve lower back pain
1. Do not wear shoes with higher than 1" heels.
2. Bend your knees when lifting heavy articles. Do not bend from the waist.
3. Avoid lifting children and heavy objects.
4. Rest one foot on a stool or box if you have to stand for a long time.
5. Sleep on your side with your upper knee bent & supported by a pillow.
6. Apply a heating pad to the sore area.

Leg Cramps :
Leg cramps is another common problem during pregnancy. While lying down stretch your calf muscles before going to bed & the first thing in the morning. If you have cramps in the middle of the night walk around slowly. Consult your doctor.

Dental :
Dental problems and hormonal changes can cause sore & swollen gums. Consult your dentist.