Most people know that pregnancy is a time to be as healthy as possible. But the months before conception are just as critical, says Heather Novak, a Whole Health Educator and Fertility Transformation Coach. “Doctors and midwives recommend preparing for pregnancy six months before actually conceiving,” she says. “This usually gives the parents-to-be enough time to get in shape and safely remove some of the toxins that have been building up in their systems over the years.”

Good pregnancy preparation “just might be the most important thing you can ever do in your life,” Novak says. “Setting the stage for pregnancy in a healthy, balanced, well-nourished body can have lasting effects on your baby’s health, including a significantly reduced risk of chronic childhood illnesses, which are on the rise and directly linked to preconception health.”

 Novak helps clients prepare for pregnancy by focusing on the “Five Aspects of Whole Health”: physical, nutritional, environmental, emotional and spiritual. Her “Fertile in Five” programs are designed for women at any stage of the fertility journey, but she recommends starting them five months out whenever possible. “I tell people to act like they’re already pregnant,” she says, “because technically they are already 50 percent pregnant. If they do, they may have a much easier time getting pregnant. It’s also the best way to ensure the health of their future child.”

Women who are experiencing fertility challenges or who are interested in pregnancy preparation can contact Novak at [email protected] or 914.420.3674, or visit WholeHealthFertility.com.