What to Expect from Pre-Conception Counseling

Pre-conception counseling is a controversial aspect of having a child. It is similar to a well baby check after a baby is born. Pre-conception counseling services generally are performed 3 to 6 months before you plan on attempting to conceive. In seeking pre-conception counseling keep in mind that even though there may be certain risks you should not give up on having a baby.

Generally you start with a questionnaire that you fill out, sometimes with a nurse. Then you will submit blood work to check for certain problems such as anemia or infections. Sometimes it can be taken further and include DNA testing to look for certain genetic problems. A urinalysis exam will also be taken to check for any urinary tract infections or signs of diabetes. You will be asked for a complete family history, be prepared for such questioning. In most cases your regular doctor can perform the pre-conception testing and counseling. The cost of such services is generally not much more than a regular doctor visit.

In my area Canton, IL there are only two large doctor offices, both offer family medicine and Obstetrics services, Graham Medical Group (formally Coleman Clinic) and Methodist medical group. It is best to see your primary doctor and tell him/her you are thinking of having a baby they will give you the basic tests to determine your health condition. They will look for any controllable risks and focus on correcting or eliminating them first. This testing and pre-conception counseling can help you physically and mentally prepare for pregnancy. I personally believe this is as far as pre-conception counseling need be taken. I believe every child is a miracle, a blessing and to have genetic tests or other such screenings is not necessary.

If you want a child and want to be a parent, remember that there is never a guarantee or manual that comes with a child. A child may be born with a mental or physical deformation. Birth may have complications that affect the baby. Your physical and emotional state can have an effect on your child. To have a genetic test done is potentially damning to a child or would be child if the test results show a probability of Down syndrome or fragile x syndrome or some other disorder. Your decision based off such results could be so devastating you may not decide to have a child at all. This is unfortunate for both you and the child that never was. A probability is not a certainty. Even if such screenings are done and show low or no probability you still could have a child with such disorders.

We have 5 children and 2 of them have mental disorders our son Arek has Severe Autism, our Daughter Lauren has slight mental retardation both did not show up or could of shown up in pre-conception counseling. Now my wife has Learning disabilities and I have bipolar and other anxiety disorders. These could be reasons some doctor may give you as to not have a child. Like I said before If you want a child then go for it and no matter what type of child you get be happy and raise it to the best of your ability.

Sources:

http://www.mymethodist.net/mmg/locations/canton.aspx

http://www.grahammedicalgroup.org/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pre-conception_counseling