Pre-Conception Counseling in the Atlanta Area

Preconception counseling is a very important step to preparing for a healthy pregnancy. It is very valuable for women to visit their ob-gyn for preconception counseling around three months or so before trying to become pregnant. There is a lot of important information that can be discussed to help prepare a woman for a good pregnancy. It is difficult for many women to undergo preconception counseling, because many pregnancies are unplanned, thereby eliminating the counseling. So, why is it important for women to consider preparing themselves and their bodies for such a momentous time in their lives? Let's examine.

You can increase the health and well being of your baby by taking vitamins with folic acid. Taking prenatal vitamins prior to conception helps decrease the chances of babies developing spinal problems. My doctor recommended that I take a good multivitamin with folic acid to help ensure a healthy pregnancy. I took Geritol women's multivitamin about a month before getting pregnant. After pregnancy I then resumed with a prenatal vitamin prescribed by my doctor.

Family histories, medical problems, and possible complications will be discussed. Blood work may be taken to determine any chances of possible diseases or infections that could pose problems for your child. STD and HIV testing may be taken also.A woman will also be informed of any changes, if necessary, that she will need to make in her lifestyle in order to ensure a healthy outcome for her pregnancy. Things such as alcohol, drug use, exercise, diet changes, rest and stress reduction are important elements that need to be addressed. The greater the care that is taken prior to pregnancy, the greater the chance of a healthy uterus environment for the baby, and the health of the baby after birth.

When I had my six week checkup after my son was born via C-section, my doctor advised to wait at least two years or so before I attempted to get pregnant again. Conceiving before two years could lead to possible uterine rupture. I had another baby the following year, however, but, thankfully, there was no uterine rupture. The doctor who performed my second C-section, said that my uterine scar was very, very thin, and close to possibly rupturing. So, it's important to try to listen to your doctor about conception information.If you are considering getting pregnant, before taking the plunge, please try to visit your doctor. Guard yourself with as much information as you can about what you can do prior to your pregnancy to help prepare your body and your baby for a healthy and smooth pregnancy. You owe it to yourself and your unborn child to optimize your chances of successful conception and delivery.

Any local ob-gyn can perform preconception counseling. The costs vary according to your insurance, so be sure to check with them before scheduling your visit.