Why Do You Need a Preconception Visit?

1. Review Your Medical History:

• It's important to meet with your doctor to go over your medical history, especially if you have chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

• Your doctor can discuss how these conditions should be managed during pregnancy.

2. Check Medications and Supplements:

• Your doctor will review any medications or supplements you are taking to ensure they are safe during pregnancy.

• They may recommend starting folic acid, which is crucial for preventing birth defects.

3. Identify Risk Factors:

• Your doctor will look for any risk factors (e.g., family history or lifestyle habits) that could increase your chances of complications like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.

•They will offer suggestions to help reduce these risks.

4. Establish a Relationship with Your Doctor:

• It’s important to build a relationship with a doctor you trust before getting pregnant.

• Early pregnancy concerns like nausea, vomiting, or bleeding can be stressful, and having a trusted doctor can help guide you through these situations.

What to Expect at Your Preconception Visit:

• Medical History: Your doctor will ask about your medical, family, and surgical history.

• Lifestyle Factors: They will discuss any habits (smoking, alcohol, or marijuana use) that could affect pregnancy.

• Physical Exam: Your doctor will ensure that you're up to date with breast exams, pap smears, and other important screenings.

• Lab Work: You may need blood tests to check for immunity to illnesses like rubella and chickenpox.

• Prenatal Vitamin: Your doctor will likely recommend starting a prenatal vitamin with folic acid to support healthy brain and spinal cord development in your baby.

Key Takeaways:

• Optimizing your health before pregnancy increases your chances of a successful and healthy pregnancy.

• Folic acid is essential to prevent neural tube defects in the baby.

• Your doctor will guide you step by step through this process to make it less overwhelming.