Preconception care is essential and indispensable; therefore, pregnancy should be properly planned, and several important steps must be taken to ensure a healthy pregnancy and the birth of a sound and healthy fetus.
In this article, we will discuss the steps of preconception care, which begin with a visit to the doctor and adopting a healthy lifestyle, and continue with proper nutrition and psychological preparation to ensure a safe pregnancy.
Steps of Preconception Care
First: Visiting the Doctor
Visiting the doctor is the first step in planning your pregnancy. The doctor can inform you about the procedures to follow before pregnancy, as well as the necessary preconception tests, as follows:
- Determining Ovulation Date: Inform the doctor of the date of your last menstrual period so they can estimate the appropriate ovulation date, pregnancy date, and follow-up.
- Discussing Chronic Diseases: If you suffer from any chronic diseases such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, or epilepsy, inform your doctor. They will guide you on how to follow a healthy system and avoid pregnancy complications due to these conditions or change the medications you are taking to treat them.
- Reviewing Family Medical History: Inform the doctor about your family’s medical history and any genetic diseases so they can refer you to a genetic specialist to ensure your health and take necessary precautions in preconception care.
- Addressing Previous Pregnancies: If this is not your first pregnancy, inform the doctor about the number of previous pregnancies and deliveries, the method of delivery, and any complications that occurred to avoid them in the next pregnancy during preconception care.
- Medication Consultation: If you are taking any medications without medical consultation, discuss this with your doctor, even if they are supplements or vitamins. Some medications may cause fetal abnormalities and should be stopped a certain period before pregnancy, as determined by the doctor.
- Confirming Parents' Age: If the parents are older, the doctor may request some tests to confirm fertility rates and pregnancy safety, as well as to assess the likelihood of complications due to advanced age.
Second: Vaccinations
There are some vaccinations that should be taken if you are planning a pregnancy, and the doctor will inform you about them to avoid any pregnancy complications. These vaccinations include rubella and chickenpox. Some immunity tests should also be conducted if vaccinations are not complete. Additionally, this should be done at least one month before attempting pregnancy.
Third: Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle
Follow the doctor’s instructions and adopt a healthy lifestyle. This step includes several points, such as:
- Stopping the use of medications without consulting a doctor or any addictive substances.
- Quitting smoking due to its negative effects on the fetus, such as premature birth, fetal death, or birth defects.
- Avoiding environmental pollutants and harmful chemicals.
- Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, as being overweight or obese reduces the chances of pregnancy, decreases fertility, or leads to miscarriage. Additionally, weight gain during pregnancy can lead to complications and diseases such as type 2 diabetes or heart diseases that affect the health of the mother, fetus, and delivery.
Fourth: Proper Nutrition
The doctor will inform you about the importance of proper nutrition before pregnancy and maintaining a healthy weight. Healthy preconception nutrition includes:
- Eating a balanced, healthy diet rich in essential nutrients such as lean proteins, fiber that aids digestion, and foods containing vitamins C, D, E, and omega-3. However, these should be consumed in appropriate amounts to maintain weight.
- Taking Folic Acid daily in the dose prescribed by your doctor, as it helps protect the fetus from neural tube defects or brain abnormalities.
Fifth: Psychological Preparation Before Pregnancy
A woman’s psychological state is crucial for a healthy and safe pregnancy in a stress-free environment. Therefore, you can follow these tips:
- Reading about pregnancy, childbirth, and child-rearing from medical sources.
- Discussing with your partner and educating yourselves together about this important stage to prepare for your child with happiness and enthusiasm.
- Practicing meditation or engaging in your favorite hobbies to achieve psychological calm.
- Consulting your doctor if you feel uncontrollable anxiety or stress.
In conclusion, the steps of preconception care are the most important steps at the beginning of your journey to achieving pregnancy, completing the pregnancy journey safely and comfortably, and having a healthy baby.
Nifas Advice
Preconception care is essential and indispensable; therefore, pregnancy should be properly planned, and several important steps must be taken to ensure a healthy pregnancy and the birth of a sound and healthy fetus. Consult your doctor when planning your pregnancy, follow a healthy lifestyle, focus on eating a balanced diet, avoid pollutants, and always remember the importance of mental health during this stage to ensure a safe pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important steps for preconception care?
The most important steps include visiting a doctor for necessary tests, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and maintaining a balanced diet. It is also essential to ensure that you are free from chronic diseases.
Why is folic acid important before pregnancy?
Folic acid is important before pregnancy because it helps prevent birth defects in the spine and brain of the fetus.
Should I consult a doctor before stopping any medications?
Yes, you should consult a doctor if you are taking any medications before pregnancy, even if they are supplements or vitamins, to ensure they do not negatively affect the pregnancy.
How can I improve my mental health before pregnancy?
To improve your mental health, you can read medical resources, talk to your partner about this stage, and practice meditation or activities that help you relax.
Is it necessary to quit smoking before pregnancy?
Yes, you should quit smoking as it significantly affects pregnancy and fetal health and increases the risk of complications.
When should I undergo medical tests before pregnancy?
Medical tests should be conducted well before pregnancy so that the doctor can identify any health issues that may affect the pregnancy and provide you with the necessary guidance.
How can I maintain a healthy weight before pregnancy?
You can maintain a healthy weight by following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding high-calorie foods.
What is the importance of vaccinations before pregnancy?
It is important to get the necessary vaccinations before pregnancy to protect you from diseases that may affect your health or the health of the fetus, such as rubella.
