Do I need to see a doctor before trying to conceive?
I’m healthy so do I need to see a doctor before trying to conceive?
Yes is the short answer!
Seeing a doctor before trying to get pregnant is a good idea for a few reasons.
The first is a general health check of your medical and family history and discussion about your lifestyle to ensure that you can optimise your health before getting pregnant.
We now know about a concept called epigenetics where the health circumstances of a mum can affect whether a gene is turned on or off in her baby and even in her grandchildren! This can impact a baby’s future health and whether or not they develop certain diseases. This is a pretty good incentive to get as healthy as possible before a pregnancy.
Stress management, exercise and a healthy diet are all important factors to optimise prior to getting pregnant.
It is important to talk to your doctor about the recommended safe levels of alcohol prior to conceiving and to know that it is recommended to avoid alcohol completely while pregnant.
If you smoke or use any other drugs, your doctor can provide information and support you in quitting.
There are certain toxins in our environment that can be harmful so you may like to discuss this with a doctor or have a look here https://www.yourfertility.org.au/everyone/lifestyle .
It is a good idea to discuss the option of getting some tests prior to getting pregnant. This can include blood and urine tests to screen for infections and to make sure you have immunity to the diseases that we can get vaccinated for such as chicken pox and rubella. The range of tests ordered will depend on your cirumstances and this may take into account things like heavy periods, family history of certain diseases and being a vegetarian just to name a few.
The doctor should also discuss the option of genetic testing with you as if this is something you want to do, it is ideally done before you get pregnant. Whilst this is an optional test, it is still important to be informed and there is some more information on this here: https://www.vcgs.org.au/prepair-carrier-screening/
If you are due for a cervical screen test, then this should be done although it can still be done during pregnancy.
It is important to discuss any medications you take with the doctor and this includes prescribed medications as well over the counter and complementary medicines. Some medicines are not safe to take during pregnancy and you may need to discuss alternative options.
Your doctor can advise as to appropriate prenatal vitamins such as iodine and folic acid which should ideally be taken prior to becoming pregnant.
It is also a good time to discuss the various pregnancy care options such as private obstetricians, shared care and care through a public hospital – see this for more info on pregnancy options: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ServicesAndSupport/pregnancy-and-birth-care-options
The other good thing to know about is when to come in to see the doctor if you are not falling pregnant. This will really depend upon your age and any underlying medical conditions so it is good to get some guidance on this.
Disclaimer: Please note that all the information on this website is general in nature. The information on the website is not intended nor suited to be personalised medical advice for any individual person. This information does not take the place of professional advice or treatment from a qualified medical professional.
If you have any health concerns, please consult with a suitably qualified healthcare professional. You should not discontinue any medical treatment, disregard medical advice or delay in seeking medical advice because of any information provided on this website. If you have any medical or health related questions, you should contact your own treating doctor.