Getting Pregnant: Why It Is Important To Get Preconception Checkups Done

• Blood tests: Blood tests will check your blood type, rH (Rhesus) factor and immunisation to measles and rubella

• STD/STI tests: These check for STIs like HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonnorhea and herpes

• Genetic tests: These tests can help determine the risk of passing on an extra chromosome that causes Down syndrome, along with other conditions

• Pelvic exam and pap smear: Both tests are a part of routine preconception testing

• Cervical screening test: This test is done to check for HPV (human papillomavirus), which can change the cells in the cervix and have a possibility of developing into cervical cancer

• Complete blood count: This is done to check for blood disorders like thalassemia or anaemia

Early Detection Of Health Issues

• Identifying health risks: Preconception checkups can help identify any underlying health issues you have that could cause harm to your baby, such as diabetes, hypertension and infectious diseases.

• Diagnose untreated conditions: These checkups can help address infections or conditions that are untreated and could affect your pregnancy.

• Medical history: The doctor goes over your medical history and asks you detailed questions about your family and your medical history. This helps the doctor identify genetic and other risk factors.

Guidance On Nutrition And Lifestyle Changes

• Nutrition and supplements: During a preconception checkup, your doctor can assess your nutrition levels and your lifestyle and recommend changes based on that. At this time, the doctor may also suggest nutritional supplements like folic acid, if needed.

• Managing weight and exercise: The doctor will guide you on how to manage your weight and recommend exercise routines if you do not already have one. It is very important to get regular exercise while you are attempting to get pregnant.

• Lifestyle changes: You will also be counselled about any lifestyle changes you need to make, especially if you smoke and drink. Your doctor will ask you to stop smoking and alcohol consumption. They may also ask you to limit caffeine intake.

Genetic Screening And Family Health History

• Potential risks: Genetic screening before pregnancy can help you understand your baby’s risks of developing genetic issues and plan ahead. This can be particularly beneficial if you or your partner have a family history of any genetic conditions. It can also help you understand your child’s risk of getting diseases and how to manage them.

• Preparing for the future: Genetic screening can help you prepare for the future by giving you time to gather additional medical resources. It would be a good idea to connect with families who have had a child with similar issues during this time.

• Considering reproductive options: If both you and your partner are carriers, you may have to speak to a genetic counsellor to understand your options. The counsellor can help you explore other reproductive options like pre-implantation genetic screening.

Reviewing Medications And Vaccination History

• Medications being used: During a preconception checkup, your doctor will ask you about all the medications you may presently be on and how they impact your chances of conception.

• Risk of unsafe medications: If the doctor finds out that any of these medications could interfere with your chances of conception, they will ask you to discontinue their usage. Additionally, if any of the medications are found to be harmful to the foetus, you will be asked to stop taking them.

• Vaccinations: Your doctor will also check to make sure that all your vaccinations are up to date, such as rubella and flu vaccines. If they are not, you will be recommended dates for your vaccination schedules

Preparation For Chronic Conditions

• Pre-existing conditions: If you have any pre-existing conditions like thyroid or heart diseases, your doctor will want to monitor you more closely, since these conditions can cause issues in your pregnancy. You might also be asked to make adjustments to your current treatment plans to better accommodate your conception or pregnancy needs.

• High-risk specialist: If you have any of these conditions, you might need to consult a high-risk obstetrical specialist to manage your condition better and reduce risks to your pregnancy.

• Regular monitoring: In cases where the pregnant woman has any of these conditions, regular monitoring is a must before conception and during pregnancy.

Evaluating Mental Health

• Mental health evaluations: Your mental health will be evaluated to check for anxiety, depression or any other underlying mental health conditions.

• Impact of mental health on pregnancy: Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety and eating disorders can have a direct impact on your menstrual cycle. It is very common for people with mental health issues to have irregular periods, which in turn can affect fertility. Most people facing infertility are also diagnosed with some mental health issues. On the other hand, undergoing fertility treatments can also lead to a lot of stress and anxiety, making the whole process a vicious cycle.

• Support strategies: Psychotherapy and counselling might be recommended to you if you suffer from any mental health issues. You may be advised for infertility counselling if you are having trouble conceiving.

Improving Fertility And Reproductive Health

• Fertility issues: If you have irregular periods or PCOS, you might have trouble conceiving. This is especially true for PCOS, as there is an added risk of miscarriage, preeclampsia and premature birth. Women with PCOS might need to have their ovulation induced or have to opt for in-vitro fertilisation.

• Timing your conception: If you are trying to conceive, you should monitor your ovulation times and menstrual cycle to find the optimal time to conceive.

• Optimising reproductive health: Your doctor might recommend changes you need to make to improve your chances of conception. This can include diet, exercise and mental health changes.

FAQs on Getting Pregnant: Why It Is Important To Get Preconception Checkups Done

1. When should I start to get preconception checkups?
   You should schedule your first preconception appointment as soon as you decide to conceive.
2. How will preconception testing help me?
   Preconception testing can help you understand any complications or underlying conditions you have and manage them accordingly if they pose a risk to your chances of getting pregnant.