Preconception counselling: Docs explain why it is a critical step in pregnancy

Women often tend to face various health challenges during pregnancy, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension. These issues can be prevented or managed with proper planning before pregnancy.

While there are many ways that can be done, preconception counselling is one of the methods, and the need of the hour, according to experts, to prepare women for pregnancy by addressing health risks, ensuring optimal nutrition, and detecting any conditions that may affect both the mother and baby. They say not only women but even couples should begin preconception counselling several months, or even a year, prior to actively trying to conceive, to optimise both partners` health and help prepare their bodies for pregnancy. This proactive approach allows time for necessary lifestyle adjustments, medical interventions, and nutritional improvements to help prepare the body and create an ideal environment for pregnancy.
 
Preconception counseling involves a medical and lifestyle evaluation carried out before pregnancy to assess maternal and fetal health. It involves examining a woman`s health history, current medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension,, or thyroid problems, and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management. Women are also briefed about necessary vaccinations, genetic screenings, and the importance of taking folic acid supplements to prevent birth defects. Preconception care helps women make informed decisions that can improve their pregnancy experience and ensure the baby’s well-being.
 
Dr Padma Srivastava, consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar in Pune said, “Preconception care is necessary for women before getting pregnant. It aids in detecting issues such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or infections that could complicate pregnancy and be risky for the mother and baby. Women who want to embrace motherhood, couples with a family history of genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia, and women over 35 who face a higher risk of complications, including gestational diabetes or chromosomal abnormalities will benefit from this counseling. It helps with improved fertility, lowers the risk of miscarriage, and reduces the chances of developmental issues in the baby. For couples facing infertility, early counseling can uncover underlying issues such as ovulation irregularities, sperm quality concerns, or other reproductive challenges. By ruling out these factors, couples have a better chance of a successful pregnancy.”
 
Dr Padma added, “Around 50 per cent of women have various health problems before pregnancy. Each month, out of 15 women aged between 23 and 35, approximately four are found to have hypertension, 5 have elevated blood sugar levels, 3 are diagnosed with thyroid issues, and around 3 face fertility challenges. 80&#37 of women are ignorant about preconception counseling. Over the past year, preconception counseling has supported more than 40&#37 of these women in planning a successful pregnancy and achieving a healthy delivery. Women are recommended to opt for blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid function, and blood sugar levels, along with infection screenings for conditions like rubella, hepatitis, and HIV. Genetic testing helps identify any risks of inherited conditions, while pelvic exams and ultrasounds evaluate uterine and ovarian health. By tackling these concerns early, it is possible to reduce the chances of premature birth, low birth weight, or other complications. Moreover, lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and managing stress by yoga and meditation, help with healthier pregnancy outcomes. Preconception counseling is about empowering women with the right knowledge to give their babies the best possible start in life.”

Dr Rashmi Niphadkar, fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Pune said “Every couple wants a smooth pregnancy and delivery, but this journey often involves some challenges. However, to avoid this, taking the help of preconception counseling can help overcome many problems. It involves discussing and examining overall health (weight, diet, exercise, work habits, addictions or habits), physical and mental well-being assessment, and genetic diseases, and preparing couples for a healthy future pregnancy. Experts will guide you on which medications you should take and which ones you should avoid during pregnancy, as well as what changes you should make to your lifestyle. Your doctor may advise you to start taking folic acid supplements, calcium, and vitamin B6 to increase your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby.”