Preconception Care
Preconception care is the medical care a man or a woman receives from their doctor when they are trying for a baby and involves simple steps that have shown to increase the chance of having a healthy baby.
Preconception health is supported by growing evidence that the preparation of a woman’s body for pregnancy and birth can have an important impact on her health and the health of her baby. It is now very popular for women to look for information and health care before or just after the conception of the baby. This can help you to prepare physically and emotionally for the pregnancy and being a mother. A number of health care practitioners provide preconception care, including general practitioners, gynaecologists, midwifes and nurses. They can check your medical history in detail; provide a physical check up and advice.
Some medical conditions that need to be monitored include diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, mental health, heart disease, and epilepsy. Your health practitioner will want to ensure that your medical condition is as well managed as it can be, and that it is safe for you to become pregnant. Sometimes you may be advised to delay trying for a baby until your medical condition is better treated. Some medications are not safe to take in pregnancy, so you might be advised to change to something safer. It is always better to check with your medical practitioner before stopping medication, because stopping suddenly can cause side effects or be dangerous to you.
Blood tests are sometimes taken, including rubella immune status (to check if you have ever had rubella, or German measles), and iron levels. A blood pressure check is done to ensure that it is within the normal range. Depending on the age of the woman and her medical history, personalised measures maybe offered, such as genetic counselling if any inherited diseases run in the family, or extra mental health support.
Some simple steps to maximise the chance of a healthy pregnancy:
- Taking folic acid at least 1 month before conception reduces the chance of the baby having spina bifida
- Eating a well balanced diet
- Stopping smoking
- Avoiding alcohol and other recreational drugs
- Maintain a healthy weight; if you are overweight, losing weight helps improve the chances of becoming pregnant, as well as being healthier for you during pregnancy, delivery and in the long term
- Taking regular exercise
- Avoiding large amounts of caffeine
Men should also ensure they eat a balanced diet, quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake. If a man is overweight, weight loss will improve the chance of conception and is important for long-term health of him and as a family.
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