Deciding to have a baby is a big decision and is usually surrounded by a lot of questions. Preconception counseling helps you navigate the route to planning and starting a family.
What is preconception counseling?
Preconception counseling is a type of counseling that provides information and guidance to couples before they conceive. It typically includes discussions and recommendations on multiple aspects of health and lifestyle that can impact pregnancy.
Topics of discussion can vary, but they usually include:
- Nutrition
- Exercise
- Work
- Life habits such as smoking or substance use
- Mental Health
And anything else that can aid couples in conceiving successfully, having a healthy pregnancy, and ultimately, a healthy baby.
Why is this important?
Preconception counseling is important in several aspects. It helps by:
-
Optimizing Couples’ Health:
Counseling includes an overall assessment of the couple. It helps ensure that individuals are physically and emotionally healthy before getting pregnant.
This ultimately increases the chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby.
-
Identifying Health Issues:
A preconception health assessment can identify and address any underlying health issues that may affect the pregnancy or baby later.
Any health issues can be dealt with before conception so they don’t become a problem later on.
For example, medication for certain conditions can present a problem for pregnant women. You can be referred to your health care provider so they can figure out the best alternative for you before you get pregnant.
-
Nutrition and Lifestyle Optimization:
Habits like smoking, drug abuse, or even unhealthy eating can become hurdles to parenthood.
Preconception counseling provides couples with guidance on healthy nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices that can positively impact their journey to becoming parents.
-
Planning and Preparedness:
It allows individuals or couples to plan and prepare for pregnancy. You can talk about what steps you need to take before conceiving.
When Should Preconception Counseling Be Done?
The timing for when a couple decides to start counseling can vary depending on their personal preference or awareness of the subject.
It’s better to start it at least a few months before you’re actively trying to become pregnant.
It gives you enough time to make necessary lifestyle changes, address health concerns, and ensure that both partners are in the best possible health.
What are the benefits?
Some of the benefits of it include:
- Improved Pregnancy Outcomes: It can lead to healthier pregnancies with fewer complications since you’re doing the best you can to prevent them
- Emotional Support: Trying to have a baby is a rollercoaster ride. Preconception counseling offers emotional support during this time. It helps address any concerns, fears, or anxieties related to pregnancy and parenthood,
- Family Planning: Preconception counseling assists in family planning, enabling individuals or couples to make informed choices about when to have a child and how to best prepare for it.
If you are ready to start your preconception counseling, send us a message!