It is important for a woman to have an understanding of what is a balanced diet as this will affect a her pre-conceptual health. For example, dietary deficiencies can be the cause of many of the Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms and can be corrected if recognised.

It is essential to eat regularly and ensure a balanced diet. Foods you prepare yourself are usually healthier than 'fast food'. Limit fried foods, pastry, dairy produce and red meat. Also limit your caffeine and salt intake. Artificially high sugary foods such as chocolate, cakes and biscuits are not necessary and can be detrimental to health if eaten in place of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Identify what situations you find most stressful and try to avoid these or, if this is not possible, take time to relax and de-stress at every opportunity.

Changing your mood can be as easy as changing the scene (eg to walk away rather than confront). Simply pausing to make a hot drink, or taking a few deep slow breaths can make a difference to your stress levels.

Lifestyle: A hectic, busy life with little time for relaxation, attention to diet or socialising will affect a woman's pre-conceptual health and general sense of happiness and well-being. Other aspects of a busy lifestyle such as not getting enough sleep and a reliance on alcohol (or other drugs) to relax are not beneficial to health and need to be addressed if pre-conceptual health is to be improved.

Life FertilityCare - How do I find out if I would benefit?