Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful journeys in a woman’s life. And planning it right is of utmost importance to ensure that it goes smoothly. Planning a pregnancy is not only about marking your calendar with your ovulation days and trying to conceive. It includes the scrutiny of your overall health, change of lifestyle, diet, and fitness. Pregnancy can lead to various complications like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and so on. To avoid these problems and promote healthy pregnancy in regard to the mother’s and baby’s health, preconception counselling is crucial. 

To understand more about preconception counselling, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with

According to Dr Jain, “Preconception counseling is an essential step in preparing for a healthy pregnancy. It involves a discussion between a woman (and her partner, if applicable) and a healthcare provider about lifestyle changes, medical history, and other factors that can influence pregnancy outcomes. This counseling helps ensure that a woman is in optimal health before conceiving, thus promoting a healthier pregnancy for both the mother and the baby.” 

One of the primary goals of preconception counselling is to evaluate and manage any existing medical conditions that could impact pregnancy. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia.

"Women with diabetes should have their blood sugar levels well-controlled before pregnancy. Poorly managed blood sugar can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes and excessive birth weight, which might require a caesarean delivery," explains Dr Jain.

Similarly, thyroid disorders must be managed before conception, as imbalances can lead to miscarriage or developmental issues in the baby. By addressing these conditions in advance, women can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes.

During preconception counselling, healthcare providers review current medications to ensure they are safe for pregnancy. Certain drugs, such as blood pressure medications, acne treatments, and psychiatric drugs, may need to be adjusted or substituted with safer alternatives.

Dr Jain highlights the importance of folic acid supplementation, stating, "A daily dose of 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid before and during the first trimester can reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, by up to 70%." Since the neural tube develops very early in pregnancy, often before a woman realises she is pregnant, taking folic acid beforehand is crucial.

Healthy lifestyle choices are fundamental to a successful pregnancy. Preconception counselling provides guidance on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, as both obesity and being underweight can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

"Obesity can increase the risk of complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, while being underweight can impact fertility and increase the likelihood of low birth weight," says Dr Jain.

A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids is encouraged. Women are also advised to quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, and avoid recreational drugs, as these habits can negatively impact fertility and foetal development.

Preconception counselling offers an opportunity to discuss genetic screening and family history. Certain inherited conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anaemia, can be passed down from parent to child. Women with a family history of genetic disorders may be advised to undergo genetic testing to assess their risk.

"Understanding family history can help identify potential risks and allow couples to make informed decisions about their pregnancy journey," explains Dr Jain. Genetic counselling can also provide insight into potential birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities.

Mental well-being is an essential aspect of preconception counselling. Stress, anxiety, and depression can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

"Addressing mental health concerns before pregnancy is crucial, as emotional well-being plays a significant role in a healthy pregnancy," Dr Jain notes. Seeking support through therapy or medical treatment can help women prepare emotionally for the challenges of pregnancy and parenthood.

Partners are also encouraged to participate in counselling to create a supportive environment and address any concerns they may have about the journey ahead.

Understanding fertility and the best time to conceive is another key aspect of preconception counselling. Women are educated on tracking their menstrual cycle, lifestyle factors that affect fertility, and age-related considerations.

"For women over 35, early assessment and planning can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy," advises Dr Jain. With the right guidance, women can optimise their chances of conception and a healthy pregnancy.

Preconception counselling is an invaluable investment in the health and well-being of both mother and baby. By addressing medical conditions, optimising nutrition, reviewing medications, and considering genetic risks, healthcare providers help women embark on their pregnancy journey with confidence.

"Early intervention and proactive care set the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and a positive outcome for both mother and baby," concludes Dr Jain.

Preparing for pregnancy through preconception counselling ensures that women are physically, mentally, and emotionally ready, paving the way for a smoother and healthier pregnancy experience.