What is preconception counseling?

Having a safe, healthy and happy pregnancy begins well before you Plan a Pregnancy. Preconception counseling is a visit with your doctor where you discuss many aspects of pregnancy and plan for a healthy pregnancy. The GOAL of this visit is to minimise adverse health effects for mother and fetus & to promote healthy pregnancy.

When should I schedule a preconception counseling appointment?

This appointment should happen at least three months before you start trying to get pregnant. Doctors at SAAVI womens Hospital will guide you for the same.

What will my provider discuss with me during a preconception counseling appointment?

During the visit, your healthcare provider will discuss the following topics:

• Family history/ Genetic History: Your family history—and your partner’s family history—can provide insight about any genetic conditions or disorders that may be passed on to a child. This information may also tell your doctor if they need to perform extra tests or watch for the development of certain conditions during pregnancy. Specific parts of your family health history to share with your doctor could include a history of :

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • Diabetes.
  • Mental disorders.
  • Birth defects (congenital conditions).
  • Thalassemia, sickle trait/sickle cell disease.
  • Twins or multiples.

• Your general medical history: It is important for your doctor to see the whole picture of your health before pregnancy. Surgeries, hospitalizations or transfusions you may have had in the past.

  • Any pre-existing medical conditions.
  • Any allergies.
  • Any medications you may currently be taking.

• Your OB/GYN history: During the discussion of your medical history, your doctor will ask you about your OB/GYN history. Some STIs and vaginal infections can affect a woman’s ability to conceive. Specific topics your provider may discuss include:

  • Any previous pregnancies.
  • Your menstrual history.
  • Contraceptive use.
  • Any sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Any history of known uterine abnormalities.
  • Vaginal infections.

• Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle is very important during pregnancy. This includes a balanced and nutritious diet, exercise, and stopping any drug use and smoking, as well as exposure to any environmental hazards.

• Vaccination: Your provider may need to update or give you additional vaccinations before you become pregnant. Rubella vaccine should be taken 8-12 weeks before planning pregnancy. Pregnancy should be avoided for 8-12 weeks if rubella vaccine has been taken.

What happens during my preconception counseling appointment?

During preconception counseling, your provider may do few tests. These tests may include:

• A physical exam: Your doctor may do a physical exam during your preconception appointment. This exam may involve your caregiver:

  • Check your abdomen.
  • Doing a pelvic exam.
  • Checking your blood pressure.
  • Recording your weight and height.

• Lab tests: These tests are used to check for various diseases and conditions. Lab tests may include:

  • Complete blood count (CBC).
  • Blood group
  • Blood for beta thalassemia.
  • Diabetes screening.
  • Testing for thyroid issues.
  • Tasting for Rubella , Hepatitis , HIV , AMH levels ( if necessary ).

• PELVIC USG: USG will help about uterus, ovaries and will be able to find few conditions like fibroid, cyst , polyp at early stages.

Your provider may also discuss how to chart to your menstrual cycles and when you ovulate each month. You may be given folic acid. You should start taking this before you are pregnant. Tacking folic acid while attempting pregnancy and during first trimester prevents few birth defect ( NTD ).

What happens after my preconception counseling appointment?

Your caregiver may make several suggestions after your appointment. These could be a mix of lifestyle changes and healthcare suggestions, including:

• Losing weight.
• Quitting smoking or drinking.
• Not taking medications that could be harmful to the pregnancy (always speak to your doctor before starting or stopping a medication).
• Updating your immunizations.
• Taking recommended vitamins (including prenatal vitamins).
• Avoiding extra stress.
• Seeing specialists for health problems before conceiving.

What other lifestyle changes should I keep in mind as I prepare for pregnancy?

When you are trying to conceive don’t stop exercises –physical activity. You should continue your routine until your pregnancy test is positive. After confirmation of pregnancy, you should consult doctor about your exercise and physical activity. Even strenuous activity exercise during peri-conception phase (while you are trying to get pregnant ) will not decrease your chance of getting pregnant or will not increase chance of abortion.