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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

Before the "two lines" (and a freebie!)

Published 11 days ago • 2 min read

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Preconception health has been on my mind a lot lately - I'm figuring out my own journey into parenthood, and it's put me on the other side of things.

As a chiropractor, student midwife, and pelvic health expert - I've spent years supporting people through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. But when I went looking for real guidance on what to do before pregnancy - the months (or years) of preparation that can actually shape how that journey goes - I found the same gap over and over: plenty of information for once you're pregnant, and almost nothing for the season before it.

Here's what I wish more people knew:

Most experts consider the ideal preconception window to be about 3 months minimum before you start trying to conceive - enough time for things like nutrient stores, cycle regularity, and any underlying health issues to be addressed before sperm and egg quality are affected. A few evidence-backed places to start:

  • Folic acid, early and consistently. The CDC recommends 400 mcg of folic acid daily for anyone who could become pregnant, starting at least one month before conception - it's one of the most well-established tools we have for preventing neural tube defects.
  • A checkup on chronic conditions. Thyroid disorders, diabetes, and autoimmune conditions are all manageable - but they're easier to manage before pregnancy than to stabilize during it.
  • A medication and supplement review with your provider, since some common medications aren't recommended during pregnancy.
  • Cutting back on alcohol, smoking, and recreational drug use, and reducing exposure to environmental toxins where you can (household chemicals, certain metals, pesticides).
  • Pelvic floor and musculoskeletal health (this is where I come in) building strength, mobility, and alignment now supports a body that's about to go through a lot of change.

None of this guarantees a smooth path. Fertility isn't something we fully control, and having the time, resources, and access to prepare your health this way is a privilege - not something everyone gets, and not something that promises an outcome. I wish it were a guarantee. It isn't. But it's still worth doing, because it's one of the few parts of this journey you actually get to shape.

If parenthood is somewhere on your horizon, near or distant, I built this checklist to help you get there feeling a little more prepared. And if pregnancy isn't in your plans at all, most of this is just good foundational health guidance, full stop.

If you need more guidance or have questions - respond to this email! I am always happy to help.

With peace and love,

Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
​Doc Halley Solutions​

Follow me on Instagram + TikTok for more content - ellynhalley.dc

In person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to offer in person care to women in the Coulee Region, and offer hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!

If you're looking for an "all in one" program that includes a prenatal exercise program, birth education, pelvic prep + mobility, nutrition information, and more - combined with regular support + check ins - I have you covered. Check out my Empowered Pregnancy program for incredible prenatal support. SUMMER SALE - $50 off with code EMPOSUMMER

Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for 1:1 coaching with me:

**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.

2172 Diagonal Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601
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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

Empowering women through all of life's transitions.

Chiropractor, coach, student midwife.

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