Pregnancy is something that can be prepared and planned in advance. Both men and women should get themselves physically ready before the pregnancy by consulting an obstetrician.
Why should I see a doctor before my pregnancy?
The reason is simple. You will get a peace of mind knowing that you are perfectly healthy and can plan to conceive properly. On the other hand, knowing that you’re having health problems or there might be some complication for your pregnancy allows you to be more careful. In addition, the doctor can also provide proper care and advice for the safety of both mother and baby.
Seeing a doctor, the couple will receive a history taking, physical examination and blood testing as follows:
History taking: Some spouses, especially wives, may have chronic disease that are considered contraindications to pregnancy or may need to be treated before the pregnancy. In addition, the doctor will conduct a history check to see whether the families of both parties have any inherited disease Gravis. This process allows the couple to receive proper advice for their pregnancy planning. Moreover, thanks to the advanced modern medical technology, it’s now possible to screen out abnormal embryos and choose only normal ones to ensure a normal child for the couple. The history taking also allows the doctor to learn about any risky behaviors that may affect the pregnancy, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, caffeinated beverage, drug using, as well as certain medications that may affect the fetus, such as roaccutane for acne, etc.
Physical examination: Physical examination, per vargina examination, pap smear, and pelvic ultrasound are to be performed to see the condition, strength, and readiness to conceive. If abnormalities are found, they will be treated before taking effect on pregnancy or becoming the cause of infertility.
Blood testing: The couple will be tested for blood groups, hematocrit for general health evaluation, thalassemia screening, blood glucose level, immunizations such as rubella, hepatitis B, and syphilis. If they are suspected of any genetic disorders, the genetic screenings will be performed too.
Pre-pregnancy healthcare
1.The couple needs to avoid risky behaviors that could adversely affect pregnancy, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, or drugs using. Caffeinated
beverages like coffee or tea should be restricted either. And if they are taking any medication on a regular basis, seeing a doctor is a must to see whether it is still okay to continue such medication.
2. Healthy diet is highly recommended. The women should eat nutritious food that covers all the 5 food groups while avoiding too much fat and sugar. The body weight should also be maintained within or as close to the normal range as possible before getting pregnant. The appropriate Body Mass Index (BMI) should be the range of 18.5-24.9 .
3. It is important that women should take vitamin supplement to prepare for pregnancy, especially folic acid at least 400 micrograms a day as it can prevent spina bifida condition in the fetus. In addition, those with anemia should also take iron supplement to increase their blood concentration.
4. Stay healthy by exercising on a regular basis.
In summary, to prepare for pregnancy, the couple should first undergo a medical check to determine if there is any problem exists and plan a proper treatment accordingly. In the mean time, they should do whatever is takes to stay healthy, whether it is exercising, eating nutritious diet, or quiting bad habits. The mother-to-be should also take folic acid supplement 400 micrograms daily to prevent certain birth defects, for example, spinal dysplasia.
Written by
Dr.Yoko Tawaratsumida
Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Reproductive Medicine
Jetanin Hospital
JETANIN Journal Vol.8 No.3