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The road to a safe, happy and healthy pregnancy begins long before you have a positive result on a pregnancy test. Preconception counselling is a visit with your gynaecologist where you discuss many aspects of pregnancy and plan for a healthy pregnancy.
Preconception care should be an integral part of primary care for women of reproductive age, especially those who are planning a family in the near future.
We recommend that you schedule a preconception appointment at least three months before trying to fall pregnant.
Dr Tisane will conduct a physical exam to check the heart, lungs, breasts, thyroid, blood pressure and abdomen. She will also record your weight and perform a pelvic exam.
She will also discuss the following with you:
Your family history: You and your partner's family history can provide great insight into any genetic disorders or conditions that may be passed on to your child. Understanding your medical past can help Dr Tisane treat you and your child in the future.
Your general medical history: It is essential that we see the whole picture of your health before pregnancy. During your appointment, Dr Tisane will want to discuss surgeries, hospitalisations or transfusions you may have had in the past. She will also ask you about any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies and medications you may currently be taking.
Your OB/GYN history: Your gynaecological history may have a direct impact on your ability to conceive and carry to full term. Some STDs and vaginal infections may affect a woman’s ability to conceive. We may do cervical cultures or blood tests to make sure there are no infections that could cause issues during conception or pregnancy.
Based on the results of the tests, we may make several suggestions after your appointment. These could be a mix of lifestyle and healthcare changes, including losing weight, quitting smoking or drinking, taking particular vitamins, updating your immunisations and avoiding certain medications that could be harmful to the baby.