Discuss the Following 8 Things During Your Pre-Pregnancy Checkup
If you're thinking about having children, it's important to schedule a pre-conception checkup. You want to make sure that your body is in the best shape possible to conceive and carry a baby, and your physician can provide guidance that makes the process easier.
Continue reading for 8 things you should discuss during your pre-pregnancy checkup.
Personal Medical History
It's important to be open and honest with your pregnancy physicians regarding your personal medical history and any current or past health concerns. Even if you're not sure if a specific topic is relevant, mention everything to your obstetrician.
It can be challenging to think of everything during a short appointment, so it's helpful to make a list of your medical history before your appointment. This will ensure that you don't forget to share any important information.Family Medical History
Knowing your family medical history will also help your physician provide you with the best possible care. In addition, the doctor needs to know about your partner's health history. Giving a thorough family medical history can benefit both you and your baby. If your doctor finds out that your mom has a clotting disorder, he can screen you for clotting problems that can cause miscarriages.
In addition, giving a family medical history helps your medical team screen for possible genetic conditions. Your doctor can also refer you to an experienced genetic counselor if your baby might be at risk for certain abnormalities.Weight
No one likes to talk about their weight, but you're more likely to have a healthy pregnancy free from complications if you maintain a healthy weight. There are risks to being both overweight and underweight during pregnancy. If you're overweight, you have a higher chance of developing pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and other problems. If you're underweight, your baby has a higher risk of low birth weight or being born before you've reached full term.
Diet and Exercise
You can't control everything when it comes to pregnancy, but you can certainly do your part to keep yourself and your baby healthy. A healthy, well-rounded diet is important for both you and your baby, and exercise will keep your body strong and help you prepare for labor.
When you're honest with your doctor about your current diet and exercise level during your pre-pregnancy checkup, she can provide guidance regarding areas that need improvement and what you're already doing well.Other Lifestyle Considerations
You'll notice that lots of questions are part of your pre-conception checkup, but this doesn't mean that your doctor is nosy! He simply wants to do everything possible to help you prepare for a healthy pregnancy.
Your physician will likely ask questions regarding your current partner, living situation and emotional state. In addition, you'll need to answer questions about smoking, alcohol consumption and drug use.
Stopping harmful behaviors before you become pregnant is one of the best gifts you can give to your baby. Your doctor can work with you to develop a plan for success.Birth Control
If you're currently on birth control, talk to your doctor about when and how you should stop it. You should also gain a clear understanding regarding how quickly your fertility could return after you stop using birth control.
Dental Health
You might wonder what your teeth and gums have to do with a healthy pregnancy, but dental health is more important than ever while you're carrying a baby. During pregnancy, you're more susceptible to periodontal disease, so visit your dentist for a thorough exam and cleaning if you haven't been in a while.
Immunizations
Before you become pregnant, it's a great idea to get caught up on your immunizations. When you are pregnant, your immune system can be slightly compromised, making you more susceptible to illness. Your pregnancy physicians will let you know which shots you need.
Your pre-pregnancy checkup is a wonderful time to ask questions and get the answers you need, so don't be afraid to speak honestly and candidly with your medical team.
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