Preparing for Parenthood

Dr. Chinmay Pataki, one of the best fertility experts and gynaecologists of Dombivali, has specially designed one of the best preconception programs to help couples take confident, informed steps toward starting a family. Whether you’re just thinking about trying, facing fertility concerns, or want to ensure your first pregnancy is smooth and stress-free, this guide is your complete roadmap.
From hormone testing to personalized nutrition, from stress management to emotional readiness—
The Importance of Preconception Planning
Why Pre-Pregnancy Preparation Matters
This powerful analogy sums up why preparing your body and mind before conception can make a world of difference. Just as a strong foundation supports a safe home, a healthy body lays the groundwork for a successful pregnancy.
At Isha Women’s Hospital, Dr Chinmay Pataki strongly advocates preconception counselling for every couple.
Here's why:
It improves your chances of:
- Natural conception by identifying and enhancing fertility windows
- A healthy, complication-free pregnancy through early health optimizations
- A safe delivery by minimizing risks and managing chronic conditions early
- Miscarriages due to untreated hormonal imbalances or poor egg/sperm quality
- Birth defects linked to nutritional deficiencies or unmonitored infections
- High-risk pregnancies, especially in women with PCOS, thyroid issues, diabetes, or advanced maternal age
When Should Couples Start Preparing?
Here’s a quick reference from Dr. Chinmay Pataki’s fertility timeline:
Situation and When to Start Preparing
- First-time trying for a baby - 3–6 months before conception
- History of miscarriage or abortion - At least 6 months prior
- Chronic issues (e.g., PCOS, thyroid) - Immediately
- Women aged 35+ - As early as possible
- Time to correct deficiencies like low iron, vitamin D, or folic acid
- Opportunity to manage conditions like PCOS, obesity, or endometriosis
- Improved egg and sperm quality through nutrition, detox, and lifestyle support
- Peace of mind for couples knowing they’re physically and emotionally ready
Dr. Chinmay Pataki’s 360° Parenthood Preparation Plan
Health Checkups & Fertility Tests
Preconception testing is not just for those struggling to conceive—it’s for every couple who wants a healthy pregnancy.
Dr. Pataki stresses early evaluation to identify and fix issues before they become problems.
For Women:
- Hormone Panel: AMH (ovarian reserve), TSH, LH, and FSH
- Pelvic Ultrasound: Checks ovarian health, uterus structure, follicles, fibroids or cysts
- Blood Tests: To assess vitamin D, thyroid levels, blood sugar, hemoglobin
- Pap Smear: Screens for cervical health before pregnancy
- STI Testing (if required): Ensures no infections interfere with conception or pregnancy
- Semen Analysis: To check sperm count, motility, morphology, and semen volume
- Testosterone & Hormonal Profile: Especially in men with low libido, fatigue, or weight gain
- Lifestyle & Medical Screening: Including smoking/alcohol history, sleep quality, exercise, and BMI
- STI Testing (if needed): To rule out any infections that can affect sperm health
Focus on Nutrition & Supplements
Here are the most important nutrients Dr. Chinmay Pataki recommends:
Nutrient and Role in Fertility & Pregnancy
- Folic Acid - Prevents neural tube defects; supports cell development
- Iron - Builds red blood cells, supports increased blood volume
- Vitamin D - Supports egg/sperm quality and strengthens immunity
- Omega-3s - Aid brain, eye, and hormone development in baby
- Processed foods & trans fats (interfere with hormone balance)
- Excessive caffeine (limit to
- Smoking & alcohol (toxic to reproductive cells and baby health)
- Spinach, chana, jaggery (iron-rich)
- Dahi, paneer, eggs (protein and vitamin D)
- Flaxseeds, walnuts (omega-3 fatty acids)
- Whole grains, millets, and seasonal fruits
Track Ovulation & Fertile Windows
Dr. Chinmay Pataki recommends these simple, science-backed tools for ovulation tracking:
Apps & Digital Tools:
- Use apps like Flo, Clue, or Glow to track your periods and fertile days
- Enter symptoms like cervical mucus, cramps, or spotting
- Detects the LH surge in urine that signals ovulation
- Best used between Days 10–18 of your cycle (based on a 28–32-day cycle)
- Cervical mucus: Clear, stretchy, egg-white-like mucus indicates peak fertility
- Basal Body Temperature (BBT): A slight rise indicates ovulation has occurred
Mental & Emotional Readiness
Manage Stress Together
“The calmer you are, the more cooperative your body becomes.”– Dr. Chinmay Pataki
Stress is often the invisible factor behind delayed conception. When cortisol (the body’s primary stress hormone) rises, it disrupts hormonal balance, menstrual cycles, and ovulation. For men, it can even affect testosterone levels and sperm quality.
That’s why Dr. Chinmay Pataki encourages couples to tackle stress together as part of their fertility journey.
Recommended Mind–Body Practices:
- Yoga: Increases blood flow to reproductive organs, reduces anxiety, and improves hormonal health
- Meditation: Calms the mind, reduces cortisol levels, and improves emotional resilience
- Counseling: Offers a safe space to express fears, expectations, and emotional blocks
Align as a Couple Before You Conceive
Becoming parents is a shared responsibility. Before you bring a child into your life, it’s important to have open and honest conversations as a couple. These talks help strengthen your relationship and ensure you’re both mentally prepared for the journey ahead.
Topics Dr. Pataki recommends discussing:
- Parenting Roles: Who will take on what responsibilities?
- Finances: How will you handle medical expenses, baby-related costs, maternity leave, or daycare?
- Work–Life Balance: Will your routines need adjustment? How can you support each other emotionally and practically?
Emotional Readiness Is Fertility Readiness
Research shows that emotional health directly impacts reproductive health. Women with lower stress levels and strong partner support are more likely to conceive faster and enjoy smoother pregnancies. Similarly, men who feel supported and mentally prepared have better hormone regulation and sperm health.
That’s why Dr. Chinmay Pataki’s 360° Parenthood Preparation Plan includes emotional readiness as a core pillar—because fertility is not just physical, it's emotional, mental, and relational.
Common Issues to Catch Early
Conditions That Affect Conception
Fertility isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, seemingly healthy couples face delays due to underlying conditions that may not show obvious symptoms. Here are some of the most common medical reasons couples struggle to conceive:
Condition and Effect on Fertility
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) - Irregular ovulation, poor egg quality
- Thyroid Disorders - Disrupts hormonal balance, causing irregular periods
- Endometriosis - Affects the uterus lining and egg release, causing pain
- Low Sperm Count - Reduces chances of natural conception
Many women with PCOS or thyroid issues go on to have smooth pregnancies after targeted treatment. Similarly, male fertility issues like low sperm count or motility can be improved with medical intervention, lifestyle changes, or advanced fertility treatments like ICSI.
At Isha Women Hospital, Dr. Chinmay Pataki uses simple, non-invasive diagnostics—such as ultrasound scans, AMH testing, and semen analysis—to detect these conditions early and build personalized treatment plans.
When to See a Fertility Specialist
Your Situation and Recommended Action
- Trying to conceive for 6+ months (under 35) - See a gynecologist for basic fertility tests
- Trying to conceive for 3+ months (age 35+) - Consult a fertility specialist
- Irregular cycles / diagnosed PCOS - Immediate evaluation
- History of miscarriage - Start with preconception care
By not delaying your fertility checkups, you give yourself the best chance at a natural conception—or early support through treatments like ovulation induction, IUI, or IVF, if needed.
Starting a family isn’t just a medical decision—it’s one of life’s most meaningful milestones. And like every important journey, it’s best begun with guidance, preparation, and clarity.
Dr. Chinmay Pataki believes that a healthy pregnancy begins with a healthy, informed, and emotionally prepared couple. That’s why Isha Women’s Hospital, Dombivli, offers a complete, compassionate approach to pre-pregnancy care.
Here’s what we provide for couples thinking about parenthood:
- Pre-pregnancy checkups for both partners
- Fertility evaluations, including AMH, hormone panels, and semen testing
- Nutritional counseling tailored to Indian diets
- Mental & emotional wellness support for stress reduction and relationship strengthening
- Preconception counseling with Dr. Pataki to build your roadmap to parenthood
Visit Isha Women’s Hospital, the best IVF and fertility center in Dombivli & Thane district & consult Dr. Chinmay Pataki, the most trusted fertility specialist, gynecologist, and laparoscopic surgeon of Kalyan-Dombivali
“Your journey to parenthood deserves expert care, emotional support, and a plan that’s made just for you.”
— Dr. Chinmay Pataki
Book your consultation today. Let us help you turn hope into happiness—with clarity, compassion, and care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ans - No — men play an equal role. Sperm health matters too.
2. Do I need tests even if I’m healthy?
Ans - Yes — to catch any silent hormonal imbalances.
3. How long before trying should I start supplements?
Ans - Start 3–6 months in advance.
4. Can we try naturally first?
Ans - Absolutely — with tracking and timing support from your OB-GYN.
5. What if we’re older or have a past fertility issue?
Ans - Dr.Chinmay Pataki offers customized care plans based on age and history.