Before the Baby: Everything You Need to Know About TTC in Malaysia

Congratulations on Finding Your Other Half!

Whether you’re ready to dive straight into parenthood or want to enjoy some honeymoon bliss first, this blog has everything you need to know about family planning.

First things first—let’s have a heart-to-heart with your partner. In your first year of marriage, are you both ready to take on the adventure of raising a baby? Will both of you be working? Are you financially prepared for the costs of having a baby? Are you ready to give up late-night Netflix binges for late-night feedings? And if both of you work, have you figured out who’s going to cover the nursery fees and baby expenses? What about those inevitable hospital visits when your little one catches a cold?

These questions might seem trivial, but trust me, it’s essential to get on the same page before taking the plunge.

Once you’ve sorted everything out and reached a compromise, here’s what to do next:

• Take Folic Acid: Start early for a healthy pregnancy.

  If you're getting ready for a baby, it's recommended to start taking 1 tablet of folic acid daily at least 90 days before trying to conceive. Folic acid plays a key role in preventing neural tube defects in your baby's brain development. It's super important to include it in your routine to help reduce the risk of serious conditions like Down Syndrome.

• Supplements: Get those nutrients in!

  Folic Acid, CoQ10, and Fish Oil are some of the first supplements fertility specialists recommend to help support healthy eggs and, hopefully, a healthy baby.

  See my complete 90-days preparation leading to IVF cycle.

• Male Fertility Test: It’s a team effort, after all.

  Did you know that a significant number of fertility issues can stem from the male side? For the sake of both your happiness, it's a good idea for the husband to take a fertility test. You can easily purchase one here, and it’s affordable too—just a small investment for peace of mind. Knowing the results in advance can help you both be mentally and financially prepared before visiting a fertility clinic. However, keep in mind that these at-home tests provide preliminary results and aren’t 100% accurate, as various factors can influence the outcome. For a definitive diagnosis, it’s always best to consult a fertility laboratory clinic.

  Here's Shopee link of the test kit. Cost at RM29.80.

• Track Your Fertile Period: Timing is key.

  Understanding and tracking your fertile period can significantly increase your chances of conceiving. Your fertile window is typically the few days each month when ovulation occurs, and your body is most ready for pregnancy. By monitoring your menstrual cycle, using ovulation tests, or even apps, you can pinpoint this window more accurately. Knowing when you're most fertile allows you to time intercourse for the best possible chance of success, making the journey to parenthood a bit more straightforward and less stressful.

  If you're using a smartphone, there are plenty of FREE apps you can download to help track your cycle. Since I use an iPhone, I personally use the Health app to monitor my period and check the predicted fertile window. Another option is to buy Ovulation (LH) Test Strips to track your ovulation. For convenience and accuracy, it's best to get a disposable plastic cup to go with it. Just make sure to read the shop reviews before buying to avoid getting a fake kit.

• Pap Smear Test: Keep everything in check.

  A Pap smear is a crucial screening test for detecting early signs of cervical cancer and other abnormalities in the cervix. By catching any irregular cells early, it allows for prompt treatment before they potentially develop into something more serious. Regular Pap smears can also help identify infections and inflammation, ensuring that your reproductive health is in good shape, especially if you're planning to start a family. It’s a simple test that can provide peace of mind and is an important step in maintaining your overall health.

  In Malaysia, I recommend visiting a private fertility clinic for more in-depth consultations and follow-ups on your test results. The cost of a pap smear at private clinics can range from RM150 to RM450, depending on the clinic. If you're on a budget, you can always head to your nearest KKM (Klinik Kesihatan Malaysia) for a fertility consultation and pap smear, where you'll only need to pay RM1 for registration.

• Baby-Making Tips: Give it 3-6 months of trying.

  If after 3-6 months there’s still no sign of a baby, it might be time to visit a fertility clinic for a thorough check-up.

  Malaysia Government Hospitals

  Booking an appointment at a government hospital can be quite a long and time-consuming process. But here's the good part – fertility consultations under the government are completely FREE! You just need to pay RM 1 for the registration fee at KKM to set an appointment and get a referral letter to a specialist nearby. After that, just call the hospital to get your appointment date, and you're good to go! I'll share more about my experience with this process in another blog post soon.

  Malaysia Private Fertility Clinic

  You can also choose to get a fertility consultation at a private clinic. The consultation fee usually starts at RM250, so it's a good idea to call your nearest clinic and ask about their rates before booking an appointment. Keep in mind that lab tests and procedures can add up quickly. During your consultation, make sure to ask about all costs upfront, including any potential hidden fees, so you're fully prepared.

Starting a family is a big decision, but it’s also a beautiful journey. Whether you’re just beginning to plan or already on your way, remember that communication, patience, and love are the keys to making it all work. Here’s to your exciting new adventure—may it be filled with joy, laughter, and lots of baby cuddles!