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Before you decide to toss aside the birth control, it's a good idea to schedule a routine exam with your gynecologist.

Your exam probably won't differ too much from your usual gynecological check-up and will include the usual breast exam and Pap smear. You'll want to talk to your doctor about whether she offers pregnancy health care or will give you a referral. If she does pregnancy care, be sure to ask her about her pregnancy philosophies to get an idea of whether or not she'll be a good fit for you. This is also a good opportunity to ask her what her plan of attack is if you have trouble conceiving. She'll have some things to ask you, too.

"If you have a decent doctor, you'll be answering a lot more...

Before you decide to toss aside the birth control, it's a good idea to schedule a routine exam with your gynecologist.

Your exam probably won't differ too much from your usual gynecological check-up and will include the usual breast exam and Pap smear. You'll want to talk to your doctor about whether she offers pregnancy health care or will give you a referral. If she does pregnancy care, be sure to ask her about her pregnancy philosophies to get an idea of whether or not she'll be a good fit for you. This is also a good opportunity to ask her what her plan of attack is if you have trouble conceiving. She'll have some things to ask you, too.

"If you have a decent doctor, you'll be answering a lot more questions than asking," says Suzanne Schlosberg, author of "The Essential Fertility Log: An Organizer and Record-Keeper to Help You Get Pregnant.." "You'll be asked a battery of questions about your menstrual history, eating and exercise habits, stress level, etc."

• tests for sexually transmitted diseases,
• a discussion about lifestyle changes to make before becoming pregnant (like getting to an optimal weight or quitting smoking)
• a review of your family tree and health history for possible fertility issues
• a blood draw to check your rubella vaccination status to determine if you need a booster shot before becoming pregnant
• a discussion about beginning a prenatal vitamin at least three months before you conceive

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