Why Preconception Counseling Is So Important

If you’re considering having a baby in the near future, you may already be thinking about baby names and nursery themes. Although choosing just the perfect name is an important part of the planning process, discussing your plans for pregnancy with a professional is something that you should consider before you even start trying.

Pregnancy is one of the riskiest things that women ever do in their lives, and the ultimate health of the mom and the baby are often taken for granted.  Yet, many of the potential risks during pregnancy can be reduced or even prevented with the right preparation. Preconception health plays a vital role in ensuring a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. A preconception counseling session with a fertility doctor will help you maximize your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

What Is Preconception Counseling?

Preconception counseling is a planning step that can help you identify and anticipate potential issues that could impact your pregnancy. It usually consists of a physical exam and questions about both partners’ medical history and lifestyle. In some cases, lab and blood work may also be reviewed as part of the session. During your visit, your fertility doctor will cover these topics:

What to Expect at a Preconception Counseling Appointment

Here’s what’s typically covered during a preconception health consultation:

1. Medical History Review

Your doctor will assess your personal and family medical history for conditions like:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Thyroid disorders

• Asthma

• Autoimmune diseases

These conditions can impact pregnancy if not well managed. Your doctor may recommend changes to medications, monitoring plans, or referrals to specialists.

2. Reproductive Health Assessment

A thorough discussion of your reproductive history will include:

• Previous pregnancies and outcomes

• Menstrual cycle patterns

• History of miscarriage or infertility

• Conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or fibroids

• Abnormal Pap smears

• Reproductive surgeries

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) will also be reviewed, as untreated infections can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

3. Lifestyle and Occupational Risks

Your doctor may ask about:

• Smoking or vaping

• Alcohol or drug use

• Exercise routines

• Mental health and stress levels

• Occupational hazards or chemical exposure

Toxins in the workplace or hobbies that expose you to chemicals can harm fertility and pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend modifications to reduce risk.

4. Genetic Counseling and Screening

You’ll discuss any inherited conditions in your family and be offered genetic carrier screening. Conditions such as Tay-Sachs disease, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and thalassemia can be passed on even when there is no family history. Screening allows you to make informed decisions early.

Why Weight Matters Before Pregnancy

Your body mass index (BMI) can significantly impact fertility and pregnancy:

• Underweight individuals may have irregular cycles or ovulation issues.

• Overweight or obese individuals face higher risks of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean delivery.

If needed, your doctor may recommend a plan to reach a healthier weight before conception.

Medication Review

Bring a complete list of all current medications, including:

• Prescription drugs

• Over-the-counter products

• Herbal supplements

• Vitamins

Certain medications can interfere with conception or cause complications during pregnancy. Your fertility doctor can help determine which ones are safe and which should be adjusted or discontinued.

Nutrition and Exercise Recommendations

Good preconception health starts with a nutritious diet and regular physical activity. During your visit, your doctor will evaluate:

• Your typical daily nutrition

• Intake of key nutrients (especially folic acid, iron, and calcium)

• Exercise habits and any high-impact or extreme workouts

Most women are advised to start a prenatal vitamin with 400–800 micrograms of folic acid to help prevent neural tube defects.

Environmental and Infectious Disease Risks

Environmental exposures can pose risks to pregnancy. Your doctor may ask if you’ve recently traveled to areas with the Zika virus or been exposed to other infections that may require vaccination or delay in conception.

Tips for Maximizing Fertility

At your preconception visit, your doctor may share fertility tips to increase your chances of conception naturally:

• Monitor ovulation and menstrual cycles

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs

• Limit caffeine intake

• Reduce stress

• Update vaccinations, including MMR, varicella, and flu shots

When Should You Schedule a Preconception Visit?

Ideally, you should schedule your preconception counseling appointment at least 3 to 6 months before you plan to start trying to conceive. This gives you enough time to address any medical concerns, adjust medications, and adopt healthy lifestyle changes that will support your pregnancy journey.

Ready to Start Planning for Pregnancy?

Taking steps now can help ensure a healthier pregnancy and a stronger start for your baby. A preconception health check is a simple but powerful investment in your future family. Contact Atlantic Fertility today to schedule a preconception counseling session.

Sources:

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: FAQ

• American Journal of Clinical Medicine: Preconception Counseling & Obesity

• American Family Physician: Preconception Recommendations