Preconceptional Care: Dos And Don'ts

Dr Duru Shah, director, Gynaecworld explains exactly why it's important to take good care of your body, even before you plan your pregnancy

Most women who get pregnant see their gynecologists only after they have missed their periods. They take it for granted that they are healthy enough to carry on with a nine-month journey, safely. They also take for granted that they have no problem which could potentially harm their growing baby. Now let me ask you this: don’t we plan and don’t we organise ourselves for any long trip we make? Then why this casual attitude towards such an important event in our lives, when the lives of both, the mother and the baby could be at stake?

Planning your pregnancy can help you make wise choices that will benefit, both you and your baby. As soon as you decided to start a family, you should see your gynecologist who will help you determine what steps you may need, to become physically and medically ready for a pregnancy.

Preconceptional care refers to the care prior to conception. This preventive care is one of the most cost-effective and beneficial interventions which can dramatically improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.

There are various factors, which if addressed preconceptionally, can result in a healthy successful pregnancy.

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