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Planning a baby: getting ready for pregnancy

Thinking about a baby is a big, hopeful step, and it usually comes with questions: what to do before trying, when to take a test, and when to see a doctor. Start here with a short plan for the next three months that both of you can follow. Guides written for Bangladeshi couples are on the way.

4 guides

Your next three months

  1. See a doctor together before you start trying, and ask what they suggest for each of you.
  2. Make your home smoke-free. If either of you smokes, this is a good time to stop.
  3. Plan the practical side: leave from work, money set aside, and who will help at home.
  4. If you already have a child, health guidance is to wait at least 2 years after a birth before the next pregnancy.
  5. A pregnancy test works from the day a period is missed, and is more reliable a week later.
  6. See a doctor if you have been trying for 1 year, or for 6 months if you are 35 or older.

Tools for this stage

  • Due date calculator

    Your due date, your week, checkup windows and the Bangla date, with a calendar file.

  • Baby names

    Girl and boy names loved in Bangladesh and around the world, with meanings and Bangla spelling.

Most common worries

Every guide for this age, by topic

Growing up

4Growing up: All guides for Planning a baby

Other ages

Next stagePregnancyWeeks 1–40