Preconception Counseling – Preparing for a Healthy Pregnancy
Preconception counseling is a vital step for couples planning to start a family. It involves a comprehensive health assessment and personalized guidance to help you prepare your body and mind for a healthy pregnancy.
At Radha Hospital & Fertility Center, Dr. Aishwarya Yerram provides expert preconception counseling to identify potential health risks, optimize fertility, and increase the chances of a smooth pregnancy and a healthy baby.
What is Preconception Counseling?
Preconception counseling is a consultation with a fertility or obstetric specialist before trying to conceive. It focuses on:
Assessing overall health and fertility.
Identifying and managing medical conditions that may affect pregnancy.
Offering lifestyle and dietary advice for optimal conception and pregnancy.
Providing genetic counseling if needed.
Who Should Consider Preconception Counseling?
Preconception counseling is recommended for:
All couples planning to conceive (even if healthy).
Women over 30 years of age planning pregnancy.
Couples with a history of infertility or pregnancy loss.
Women with chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid issues, hypertension).
Couples with a family history of genetic disorders.
Women who have undergone previous complicated pregnancies.
What to Expect During Preconception Counseling?
1. Health & Medical History Review
Detailed discussion of your medical, surgical, and family history.
2. Physical Examination & Tests
Basic fertility evaluation, blood tests, and screening for chronic conditions.
3. Vaccination Check
Ensuring you are up-to-date with essential vaccinations like rubella, hepatitis B, and others.
4. Nutrition & Lifestyle Guidance
Advice on a healthy diet, exercise, and supplements (like folic acid).
Guidance on quitting smoking, alcohol, and other habits that may affect fertility.
5. Genetic Counseling (if needed)
For couples with a family history of genetic disorders or repeated pregnancy losses.
6. Emotional & Mental Health Support
Addressing stress and providing psychological support for a positive conception journey
Benefits of Preconception Counseling
Optimizes fertility health for both partners.
Reduces pregnancy risks by managing health issues beforehand.
Prevents complications for mother and baby.
Provides clarity and confidence before starting the pregnancy journey.
What Happens at a Preconception Counseling Session?
During a preconception counseling session, your doctor will:
Review Your Medical History – Assess personal and family medical history, previous pregnancies, and any fertility concerns.
Conduct Health Check-ups & Tests – Blood tests, thyroid screening, sugar levels, and other fertility-related evaluations.
Check Vaccination Status – Ensure you are up-to-date with essential vaccines like rubella, hepatitis B, etc.
Provide Nutrition & Lifestyle Guidance – Recommend a healthy diet, exercise, weight management, and supplements like folic acid.
Assess Genetic Risks – If needed, refer for genetic counseling to rule out inherited disorders.
Offer Emotional & Mental Health Support – Address stress or anxiety related to conception and pregnancy.
Plan for a Healthy Pregnancy – Create a personalized plan to improve your chances of conceiving naturally and carrying a healthy pregnancy.
Tests Performed During Preconception Counseling
During preconception counseling, your doctor may recommend a set of tests to assess your health and prepare your body for a safe pregnancy. These may include:
Blood Tests:
Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for anemia or infections.
Thyroid Function Tests: To rule out thyroid disorders.
Blood Sugar Levels: Screening for diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Vitamin D & B12 Levels: To correct deficiencies.
Infection Screening:
HIV, Hepatitis B & C, and Syphilis tests for both partners.
Rubella & Chickenpox (Varicella) immunity testing.
Hormonal Tests:
FSH, LH, AMH (for ovarian reserve).
Prolactin levels to check for hormonal imbalances.
Genetic Screening (if required):
For couples with a family history of genetic disorders or recurrent miscarriages.
Blood Group & Rh Typing:
To check compatibility and prevent complications in pregnancy.
Pelvic Ultrasound:
To evaluate uterine and ovarian health.
Why Choose Radha Hospital & Fertility Center?
Led by Dr. Aishwarya Yerram, an expert in reproductive health and fertility care.
Personalized counseling sessions tailored to your medical and emotional needs.
Comprehensive care from preconception to pregnancy and beyond.
Book Your Preconception Counseling Session
Planning for pregnancy? Preconception counseling is the first step toward a safe and healthy journey to parenthood.
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Aishwarya Yerram at Radha Hospital & Fertility Center today and take control of your pregnancy planning.