WHAT IS PRE PREGNANCY COUNSELLING ?
Preconception counseling also called as pre pregnancy counselling is a visit with your doctor where you discuss plans for becoming pregnant. A healthy pregnancy begins well before you get a positive result on a pregnancy test .
Nearly half of pregnancies are unplanned , so many couples never receive the benefits of preconception counseling .
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PRECONCEPTION COUNSELLING?
Helping patients to understand the effects of any current health issues on conception and pregnancy.
• Women and their partners are encouraged to prepare actively for pregnancy, and be as healthy as possible.
• Optimising management of chronic health problems.
• Identifying couples who are at increased risk of having babies with genetic problems. Provide them with sufficient knowledge to make informed decisions.
ADVICE FOR ALL WOMEN
Timing of pregnancy
Couples having a regular sexual intercourse and not using contraception have over 80% chances of getting pregnant within one year .But women become less fertile as they get older
Folic acid
All women should take at least 400 mcg/day while trying to become pregnant and in the first three months of pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects . Women at high risk of neural tube defects should take a higher dose of 5mg/day Diet alone does not reliably supply adequate folic acid.
Diet
Advice on eating five portions of fruits and vegetables per day and food rich in iron , calcium and vitamins is important .
Women should avoid :
Uncooked or undercooked meat , fishes and eggs
• Unpasteurized milk
• Unripened soft cheese such as Brie , camembert or blue- veined cheese
• Unwashed fruits and vegetables
• Fish containing high levels of mercury such as shark, swordfish .Tuna should be limited
• Liver and liver products
Exercises
• Women who exercise regularly should continue to do so
• Women who are inactive should start basic exercises
• Avoid high impact sports , vigorous racquet sports and scuba diving
Body weight
Women who are overweight or obese should lose weight before becoming pregnant to reduce the risk of complications in pregnancy . Similarly women who are underweight may find getting pregnant difficult and are at risk of pregnancy related complications.
Alcohol and smoking
It is safe to avoid alcohol and smoking throughout pregnancy as there is increased risk of miscarriages , fetus growth restriction, facial anomalies , behavioural problems and premature birth and stillbirth(born dead) and sudden infant death .
Rubella
Testing for immunity and vaccination if not immune is very important . Rubella infection in the first 8-10 weeks of pregnancy results in damage upto 90% infants
• Advise women not to get pregnant for a month after vaccination
Medication review
• Women on medications for other medical conditions should consult the doctor and may require a change in medication
• Risk and benefits of taking a medication while planning for pregnancy should be discussed and reviewed
• Little or no data on herbal preparations
• Avoid taking fish liver oils and supplements containing more than 700 mcg per day
Risk from environment
• Advice to wash hands after gardening and to avoid cleaning cat litter.
• Advise to read product labels and warnings before using products
• Avoid radiation exposure
• Avoid exposure to hazardous chemicals
ADVICE FOR OLDER WOMEN
The current trend is for women to have babies later in age, they should be supported in their choices but should be aware of the outcomes.
Older age is associated with difficulty in getting pregnant , increased risk of miscarriages ,downs syndrome , twins , hypertension, diabetes in pregnancy , problems during labour and risk to the fetus with increasing maternal age
IS PRECONCEPTION COUNSELING IMPORTANT?
Preconception counseling, also known as pre-pregnancy counseling, is a critical step in planning a healthy pregnancy. It involves a visit with your doctor where you discuss plans for becoming pregnant. This proactive approach ensures that a healthy pregnancy begins well before you see a positive result on a pregnancy test.
It’s essential to note that nearly half of pregnancies are unplanned, meaning many couples miss out on the benefits that preconception counseling provides. This highlights the importance of consulting a healthcare provider early on, even before attempting to conceive. For personalized care and guidance, consult the Best Gynecologist in Chennai, Dr. Shruthi, known for her compassionate approach to fertility and pregnancy care.
WHAT IS PRE-PREGNANCY COUNSELING?
Pre-pregnancy counseling is a preparatory step for individuals or couples planning to have a baby. During this visit, you discuss your health, lifestyle, and family history with your doctor, aiming to optimize your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
This process involves assessing current health issues, lifestyle habits, and any factors that could affect conception or pregnancy. By addressing potential risks early, couples can prepare better for a healthy pregnancy journey.
BENEFITS OF PRECONCEPTION COUNSELING
Preconception counseling provides numerous benefits, including:
- Understanding Current Health Issues:
- Patients are guided on how their existing health conditions could impact conception and pregnancy.
- Encouraging Healthier Preparation:
- Women and their partners are motivated to actively prepare for pregnancy and adopt healthier lifestyles.
- Optimizing Chronic Health Management:
- Chronic health problems are managed better to reduce risks during pregnancy.
- Assessing Genetic Risks:
- Couples at increased risk of genetic problems are identified and provided with knowledge to make informed decisions about their pregnancy.
TIPS FOR ALL WOMEN
1. Preparing Your Body for Pregnancy
Timing of Pregnancy
Couples engaging in regular sexual intercourse without contraception have over an 80% chance of conceiving within a year. However, fertility declines with age, so planning the timing of your pregnancy is essential.
Folic Acid Supplementation
- Women trying to conceive should take at least 400 mcg/day of folic acid, continuing through the first three months of pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects.
- Women at high risk of neural tube defects should take a higher dose of 5 mg/day.
- Diet alone is not sufficient to meet the required folic acid levels, making supplementation necessary.
Body Weight Management
- Overweight or obese women: Losing weight before pregnancy can significantly lower the risk of complications during pregnancy.
- Underweight women: Being underweight can make conception difficult and increase pregnancy-related risks. Aim for a healthy weight to ensure optimal pregnancy outcomes.
2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Dietary Guidelines
Eating a balanced diet with adequate nutrition is essential.
- Aim for five portions of fruits and vegetables daily.
- Include foods rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins for optimal health.
Foods to Avoid:
- Uncooked or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs (to avoid infections like salmonella).
- Unpasteurized milk and unripened soft cheese (e.g., Brie, Camembert, blue-veined cheese).
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables (to prevent toxoplasmosis).
- Fish high in mercury (e.g., shark, swordfish; limit tuna).
- Liver and liver products (to avoid excess vitamin A).
Exercise
- Women who exercise regularly can continue their routines.
- Inactive women are encouraged to start with basic exercises.
- Avoid high-impact sports, vigorous racquet sports, and scuba diving to reduce risks.
3. Avoiding Risks and Ensuring Safety
Alcohol and Smoking
Avoid alcohol and smoking entirely during pregnancy to prevent:
- Miscarriages
- Fetal growth restrictions
- Behavioral problems
- Premature birth, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Rubella (German Measles)
Testing for rubella immunity is crucial. Vaccination is recommended for women not immune, with a waiting period of one month before attempting pregnancy post-vaccination. Rubella infection during early pregnancy can severely affect the baby.
Medication and Environmental Safety
- Review all current medications with your doctor. Adjustments may be needed to ensure safety during pregnancy.
- Avoid herbal supplements and fish liver oils containing high vitamin A levels.
- Maintain good hygiene: wash hands after gardening and avoid cleaning cat litter.
- Limit exposure to radiation and hazardous chemicals.
ADVICE FOR OLDER WOMEN
The current trend is for women to have babies later in age, they should be supported in their choices but should be aware of the risks. Older maternal age can lead to:
- Increased difficulty in conceiving
- Higher risk of miscarriages
- Greater chances of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome
- Increased likelihood of twins
- Risks of hypertension, diabetes, and complications during labor
- Higher risks to the fetus
The final words
Preconception counseling is a crucial step for anyone planning to conceive, offering personalized guidance to ensure a healthy pregnancy. By addressing health issues, optimizing lifestyle choices, and preparing physically and mentally, couples can significantly reduce risks and improve outcomes. For expert support and care, visit a trusted Gynecology Hospital, where experienced professionals provide comprehensive preconception counseling tailored to your needs.
This proactive approach empowers couples to make informed decisions, ensuring a safe and successful start to their pregnancy journey.