Preconception Counseling | Pregnancy Planning Guide
Preconception Counseling
Caring for a lady’s health prior to becoming pregnant is Preconception care. During this visit, we give information about any risk factors and treat any medical problems that the lady may have before she gets pregnant. This will help her make healthy choices for her and her baby.
What to expect in this visit?
- History regarding previous pregnancies, menstrual history, contraceptive use, sexually transmitted diseases and vaginal infections is taken. Information about surgeries, pre-existing medical conditions, allergies and current medications. Family history, history of twins, any genetic conditions in the family. Lifestyle information like stress, exercise, diet, use of caffeine, tobacco, alcohol or recreational drugs.
- Physical examination and Lab tests, if necessary
- Based on the history and examination, lifestyle changes are suggested. These may include weight loss, quit smoking or drinking, avoid any medication that could be harmful during pregnancy or for the baby, updating immunizations.
- You will be advised regarding fertile days during the cycle
- Asked to commence preconception, 400 - 800 mcg of folic acid daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers about Preconception Counseling and pregnancy planning at Southern Gem Hospital in Hyderabad.
What is Preconception Counseling?
Preconception care involves caring for a woman's health prior to becoming pregnant. During this visit, information about any risk factors is provided and any medical problems the woman may have are treated before she gets pregnant. This helps her make healthy choices for herself and her baby.
What happens during a Preconception Counseling visit?
During a preconception counseling visit at Southern Gem Hospital:
1. A complete history is taken including previous pregnancies, menstrual history, contraceptive use, sexually transmitted diseases, vaginal infections, surgeries, pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, current medications, family history, history of twins, genetic conditions in the family, and lifestyle information such as stress, exercise, diet, caffeine, tobacco, alcohol or recreational drug use.
2. Physical examination and laboratory tests are performed if necessary.
3. Lifestyle changes are suggested based on the history and examination.
4. The patient is advised regarding fertile days during the menstrual cycle.
5. Preconception folic acid supplementation of 400-800 mcg daily is commenced.
Why is Preconception Counseling important?
Preconception counseling is important because it identifies risk factors and helps treat medical problems before pregnancy begins. It helps women make healthy choices for themselves and their baby. It also ensures that medications that may be harmful during pregnancy are avoided, immunizations are updated, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or alcohol are made before conception.
What lifestyle changes are recommended during Preconception Counseling?
Based on the history and examination during preconception counseling, recommended lifestyle changes may include weight loss if needed, quitting smoking, stopping alcohol consumption, avoiding medications that could be harmful during pregnancy or to the baby, and updating immunizations.
What folic acid dose is recommended before pregnancy?
During preconception counseling at Southern Gem Hospital, women are advised to commence preconception folic acid supplementation of 400 to 800 mcg daily before getting pregnant. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing baby.
Who should attend Preconception Counseling?
Preconception counseling is recommended for women planning to conceive, women with pre-existing medical conditions before pregnancy, women with a family history of genetic conditions or twins, women with previous pregnancy complications, and women currently taking medications that could be harmful during pregnancy.
Is Preconception Counseling available at Southern Gem Hospital Hyderabad?
Yes. Southern Gem Hospital, Hyderabad offers Preconception Counseling at both its Basheerbagh and Banjara Hills branches. The counseling is provided by Dr. Sweta Agarwal, Director of Fertility and Gynaecology.
Basheerbagh: +91 40 6658 5555
Banjara Hills: +91 91778 20007
Email: info@southerngem.in