Planning For Pregnancy
If you are interested in planning for pregnancy, you probably have some questions. First, when is the best time to start a family? While the right time for everyone is different, you should discuss this decision with your OBGYN, who will be able to advise you on the timing. It is your body and your life so it is normal to plan it accordingly. These are some things that you need to know about the pregnancy process.
Preconception health
Preconception health, according to the CDC, refers to both men and women’s health during their reproductive years. Men should be aware of their role in preconception. While women are the primary caregivers for a pregnancy, men also need to be aware of their role. Men need to be aware that STIs can have serious consequences for their pregnancy. Preconception care aims to ensure both men and women have healthy pregnancies.
Taking care of yourself before becoming pregnant has many benefits, but it is especially important when trying to start a family. Couples should work to improve their preconception health. Preconception is an ongoing process that optimizes your health and helps you identify risks that could negatively affect your pregnancy. With preconception health, you will improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Preconception counseling
Whether you are a first-time mom or a seasoned parent, preconception counseling can help you plan for pregnancy with ease and confidence. A doctor can assess your health risk and recommend the right steps to take to safeguard you and your baby. Preconception counseling may be an option if you have a medical history that includes a family history of certain conditions or diseases. You may be recommended diagnostic tests depending on the type of counseling that you receive. These tests could include an ultrasound, fetal echo and blood work.
Preconception planning is best done by visiting the doctor. Your OB/GYN (obstetrician-gynecologist) or a maternal-fetal medicine specialist can help you plan for your upcoming pregnancy. During this visit, your doctor will discuss the health risks of pregnancy, as well as family health history. This is a great time to talk about your family history and past pregnancies. In addition, your doctor can discuss social concerns during pregnancy, such as domestic violence.
Preconception health checks
Whether you’ve decided to start a family or you’re just thinking about becoming pregnant, preconception health checks can be a crucial part of preparing for your pregnancy. Your doctor will ask you questions about your current health, your past health issues, and any medication you may be on. A preconception health check may also involve a pelvic exam and blood tests to check for any conditions. Your doctor will also be able to advise you on how to manage any pregnancy complications.
Your doctor will assess your current mental and physical health before you plan to become pregnant. If you are unsure if you’re at risk, you should get tested for genetic conditions. Pregnancy is a time when genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis can be passed down from parents to children. You will need to treat any of these conditions before you attempt to conceive.
Preconception medications
Preconception medications are not for everyone. There are many things to take into consideration. How the medications impact your chances of getting pregnant will depend on how healthy you are. Some conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, can affect your ability to become pregnant. It is important to address any chronic health conditions before you attempt to get pregnant. If you have a history of miscarriage, a physician may recommend certain medications, or change the way you take them.
It is also crucial to consider the lifestyle of your future baby. It is best to take contraception before you start any sexual activity if you want to get pregnant. Preconception consultations should be attended by your partner. They will learn about what to do and not do during pregnancy. If your partner decides to get pregnant, it is a good idea for you to support her and offer understanding.
Preconception exercise
It is important to get enough exercise before you have a baby. Yoga and Pilates make excellent preconception exercises. They build strength, balance, endurance, and muscle tone. Yoga can also help women relax. Yoga can cause injuries that could hinder your efforts to get pregnant. It is important to seek the guidance of a teacher if you are planning to do yoga. A healthy pregnancy can be made possible by taking good care of your body.
Screening for genetic carriers
A test called genetic carrier screening detects certain genetic conditions. While it’s not necessary that you have the disease to become a parent to your child, it is an important step to make to protect your child. This test can detect a variety of genetic disorders that could affect your child. Whether you’re trying to get pregnant or you’re already pregnant, the test can tell you if you are a carrier.
Your healthcare provider will discuss your family’s medical history first before you can get this test. They will then help you decide whether to undergo carrier screening. If they believe you’re at risk, they may refer you to a genetic counsellor for further testing. Even if you are not at risk, you still have the option to get the test, especially in the first 12 week of your pregnancy. The test should be done at least once during your pregnancy.