Why pre-pregnancy counselling is important

Women who intend to start a family must visit gynaecologist for a check-up and advice. It also provides a window of opportunity for health promotion, as women are very motivated to alter unhealthy lifestyles at this time.

So what could a pre-pregnancy counselling offer? It helps understand any health issues that may affect conception and pregnancy.

A doctor may advice a few investigations to rule out any potential complications. A gynaecologist may also prescribe folic acid supplements that are most effective preventive intervention for many pregnancy complications. One can start on it before pregnancy and later continue it throughout the nine months.

Also, health and lifestyle of both partners can affect pregnancy outcomes, and a doctor will be able to assess and advice accordingly. Medical history also needs to be investigated.

In case of chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes, thyroid disorders, hypertension, epilepsy, kidney disease, thalassaemia trait, history of thromboembolism, psychiatric illness, TB, HIV, women are advised to use contraception until a full review of their health condition.

(The author has been associated with women health for 34 years and is a practicing Gynecologist and Obstetrician in Ghaziabad.)

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