Preconception counselling: A valuable investment in the long-term health of the entire family.

I have never had chickenpox. I always felt myself as very lucky. Little did I know, this is going to bring bad luck to me in the future.

My husband and i planned our pregnancy. We read about it on the internet, took good quality antenatal vitamins, got all healthy, altered our diets, our daily habits because everywhere we read, both mom and dad need to be healthy for a healthy baby. I wish I had seen a doctor for preconception counselling. I contracted chicken pox in my 13^th week of pregnancy . My baby now has Congenital Varicella Syndrome, something that we could have prevented if I had taken a chicken pox vaccine before planning my pregnancy.

Preconception counseling is a vital process involving a consultation with a healthcare provider before attempting to conceive to optimize health and identify potential risks for a healthy pregnancy. it is recommended for anyone planning a pregnancy, ideally starting at least three to six months before trying.

What it includes:

• A detailed history taking by your gynec- your health issues, your lifestyle, previous pregnancies, medications/ supplements you are on.

• A detailed physical examination- to rule out thryoid disorders, sexually transmitted diseases, pelvic infections which can be a cause of infertiltiy/ miscarriages

• Blood tests- a complete blood count, blood group, sugars, viral markers and additional tests according to your history.

• Nutrional counselling, lifestyle changes, vaccinations update needed before planning for a baby

Why preconceptional counselling is important?

"Parenting begins with you: a healthy parent to a healthy offspring"

• Overall health optimization: It helps identify and manage pre-existing medical conditions (like diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases) that could complicate pregnancy. This often involves adjusting medications to those with better safety profiles during pregnancy.

• Reduces risk of birth defects: A crucial component is ensuring adequate intake of folic acid (400-800 micrograms daily), starting at least one month before conception, which drastically reduces the risk of neural tube defects (serious brain and spine abnormalities).

• Manages lifestyle factors: It provides guidance on necessary lifestyle modifications for both partners, such as quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs, and achieving a healthy weight, which can otherwise lead to complications like preterm birth, low birth weight, and placental abruption.

• Prevents infections: Counselling includes screening for and treating infectious diseases (like STDs, rubella, and varicella), and ensuring up-to-date immunizations to protect both the mother and the baby from harm.

• Identifies genetic risks: A review of family medical history helps identify risks for inherited genetic disorders (e.g., cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia). This allows couples to make informed decisions about genetic screening or other family planning options.

• Enhances fertility: By identifying and treating underlying issues that might hinder conception (such as certain medical conditions or weight problems), counselling can improve a couple's chances of getting pregnant.

• Promotes informed decision-making: It empowers individuals and couples with the knowledge needed to make informed choices about family planning, pregnancy timing (e.g., safe interval between pregnancies), and overall well-being. 

In essence, preconception counselling is a valuable investment in the long-term health of the entire family, often starting before women even know they are pregnant, which is when the baby is most vulnerable to harmful exposures.