PREPARE FOR HEALTHY PREGNANCY: PRECONCEPTION CHECKUP

If you are planning for pregnancy in near future or actively trying to conceive, it’s important to do a little bit of preparation. Usually this includes taking healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, taking prenatal supplements like folic acid. But most important is seeing your OBSTETRICIAN for preconception health check which is often overlooked but are essential.

What is preconception checkup & Why it’s important

Preconception health checkup is medical assessment of you and your partner to evaluate your overall health and identify potential issues affecting your pregnancy or your baby’s well-being as

• They help identify and address any underlying health issues that could complicate pregnancy or harm your baby.
• They provide an opportunity to optimize your health, including addressing lifestyle factors like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.
• While the internet is useful for general pre-pregnancy tips, nothing beats personalized advice from a medical professional who knows and understands your unique medical history.

Components of preconception checkup

Preconception checks usually include one or more of the following components. Part of this will depend on your case:

• Medical History
  This is a thorough review of your medical history, obstetric & gynecological history, and any chronic conditions you may have. This is particularly important if you suffer from conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism or high blood pressure.
• Physical Examination
  A physical examination, including weight, blood pressure, and general health assessment, may be conducted if needed.
• Medications Review
  If you are on medication for a particular condition, your doctor will review your medications at all preconception check ups to ensure they work as expected. Additionally, make a note of any supplements that you’re taking to ensure that they’re compatible with pregnancy.
• Screening for Infectious Diseases
  Testing for infectious diseases like rubella and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) helps determine if you are immune or need vaccination.
• Vaccines
  If there are vaccines that you have not yet received as an adult, it’s time for you to update your vaccine status. It’s essential to do so before you are pregnant.
• Recommend Genetic Tests
  Depending on your ethnicity, your doctor may recommend genetic tests for:

1. Sickle cell anemia
2. Thalassemia (an inherited form of anemia)

• Other items of discussion

1. Help with stopping birth control if you haven’t already.
2. Help with programs like stop-smoking, substance abuse, or mental health issues if needed.
3. Undergo blood tests if necessary.

Lastly, go prepared with any questions that you may have. A preconception health checkup is also a great time to speak to your doctor about any pregnancy-related issues that concern you personally.

Preconception check-ups are designed to give you and your doctor a good starting point regarding your health and any possible issues that may impact conception or birth. This appointment is an excellent first step to take before becoming pregnant, just to ensure that your medical health is in order before conceiving.

1. VANDANA BINWAL

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

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