What is preconception counselling?
Preconception counselling is a visit with your healthcare provider where you discuss many aspects of pregnancy and plan for a healthy pregnancy.
When should I schedule a preconception counselling appointment?
This appointment should happen at least three months before you start trying to get pregnant.
What will my provider discuss with me during a preconception counselling appointment?
During the visit, your healthcare provider will discuss the following topics:
Family 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. Understanding your medical past can help your healthcare providers treat you and your child in the future. Specific parts of your family health history to share with your doctor could include a history of :
- Hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Diabetes.
- Mental disorders.
- Blindness.
- Deafness.
- Birth defects (congenital conditions).
- Ethnicity-related diseases (Tay-Sachs, sickle trait/sickle cell disease).
- Twins or multiples.
Your general medical history: During your appointment, your caregiver will want to discuss:
- 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.
- Pap smears or any treatments for abnormal paps.
- Vaginal infections.
Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle is very important during pregnancy. This includes a balanced and nutritious diet, exercise, andstopping 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. Some of these vaccinations may require time between when they are given to you and when you become pregnant.
What happens during my preconception counselling appointment?
A physical exam: This exam may involve your caregiver:
- Checking your heart, lungs, breasts, thyroid, and abdomen.
- Doing a pelvic exam.
- Checking your blood pressure.
- Recording your weight.
Lab tests: These tests are used to check for various diseases and conditions. Lab tests may include:
- Testing for rubella.
- Testing for hepatitis.
- Complete blood count (CBC).
- A pap smear.
- Diabetes screening.
- Testing for thyroid issues.
- Testing for HIV.