An Overview of Preconception Counselling

1. An Overview of Preconception Counselling ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Pregnancy is a beautiful chapter in the lives of every couple. To some couples, this beautiful beginning is a surprise that stops them from leveraging preconception counselling sessions. However, for those who plan their pregnancy, preconception counselling can be of great help. Let us understand this concept in depth. What is Preconception Counselling? Preconception counselling is a session with a medical professional to discuss plans for conceiving and starting your family. A preconception session with the doctor can reduce the risk of complications that can harm the foetus or mother during pregnancy. The main purpose of such sessions are: ●Keeping the foetus and the mother-to-be healthy ●Advising for safe conception ●Reduce the possibility of potential complications Preconception Counselling Generally Involves: Risk Assessments:The doctor will ask for your and your family’s medical history and documents associated with the same to analyse the potential complications that you can have during pregnancy. There are several factors, like alcohol or tobacco consumption, diet, and overall lifestyle, that can result in complications. Once the factor analysis is done in your case, the doctor will advise you to make necessary changes to reduce the complications in future. Recommending Changes:There are chances you might need to change your lifestyle or treatment to prepare the body and mind for conception, and the doctors will guide and educate you to take the necessary steps for the same. Referrals: In case you need to undergo a specific treatment, need help with surrogates, or any helpful medical resources for a successful conception, the doctors will help you with those. What to Expect During the Preconception Counselling Appointment? Be prepared for the following during the preconception counselling appointment: Physical examinations: Doctors may conduct certain examinations to analyse your overall health. They may conduct a pelvic examination and check vital signs like sugar and blood pressure and vital organs like lungs and heart to understand your body’s condition. Medical History: Doctors will check your medications, ask about your surgeries, medical conditions, and OB/GYN history, and also enquire about the menstrual cycle along with previous pregnancies. So, be ready to answer all these questions.

2. Tests: You may be recommended some tests to check for diseases or infections that require treatment. This also includes tests for genetic conditions. Family Medical History:Doctors will ask for the couple’s family medical history to understand potential disorders or conditions that you can pass on to the newborn. Your caregiver can also guide you on certain things based on your future planning. They are: The Best time to Conceive: Doctors will help you track your ovulation to determine the best time of every month you are most likely to conceive. Circumstances and Timeline for Welcoming the Baby: You want to become a parent but might not feel mentally prepared. They will listen and guide you on the basis of your problems to help you prepare for a pregnancy and feel secure about it. When to Try for Another Baby: Having another baby too soon after your first one can increase the chances of complications. This also depends on several factors like health and age, and after assessing those, your doctor can advise on when you should try again. Managing Existing Medical Conditions: Your doctor will advise necessary lifestyle or medication changes to help you maintain your overall health and limit the chances of complications resulting from it for the foetus and yourself. When to Visit for Preconception Counselling? Preconception counselling has to be in your healthcare routine if you are looking forward to conceiving in the future or planning a pregnancy now. However, those who are new to this concept or wish to begin counselling around the time of conception should take a session a minimum of three months prior to starting trying for pregnancy. Conclusion Preconception counselling and care play an important role in a healthy pregnancy journey. Medical professionals will listen to your problems and understand your overall condition to guide you accordingly. So, if you are planning pregnancy, make sure to visit for a session. Source: https://theomnibuzz.com/an-overview-of-preconception-counselling/