We had to go home without our baby. I don’t think I can explain that pain to anyone who hasn’t lived it.

On May 22, 2012, Nichole Smith gave birth to healthy twins at Nebraska Medicine. Months prior, a physician at another Omaha hospital told Nichole she had suffered a miscarriage. Nichole went to Nebraska Medicine for a second opinion.

Starting a family after age 35 is a growing trend that has its benefits and risks. For couples that wait, many believe that the benefits outweigh the risks: they feel better prepared emotionally and financially and more established in their careers.

If pregnancy is in your future, consider these pre-pregnancy steps you can take now to ensure the healthiest start for your baby.