Why do I need preconception counseling?
Preconception counseling helps you identify any problems or risk factors that may make it more difficult for you to become pregnant or have a healthy pregnancy. With early intervention, you can plan ahead to get the treatment you need, so you can have a happy and healthy pregnancy.
You should consider preconception counseling if you:
- Have been diagnosed with a chronic condition, such as diabetes
- Have a history of miscarriages or stillborn births
- Have a partner who has chronic diseases
- Are worried about genetic defects
- Are overweight or obese
Your growing baby goes through rapid development during their first few weeks, often before you know you’re pregnant. During preconception counseling, you also learn about proper diet, exercise, and nutrition supplement requirements to ensure your baby gets everything they need.
What happens during preconception counseling?
At Women's Global Health of Northern Virginia, Dr. Motesharrei and her compassionate team care for you every step of your preconception, pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum stage. During your preconception counseling appointment, Dr. Motesharrei may:
- Examine you from head to toe
- Perform a pelvic exam or Pap smear
- Check your pulse and blood pressure
- Order lab testing, such as a blood draw or urinalysis
- Talk with you about family planning and how long you’ve been trying to get pregnant
Dr. Motesharrei may also suggest genetic screening. She can help you determine if you or your partner are carriers for any conditions that may affect the health and wellbeing of your baby, so you can plan ahead or get any essential treatments.
How do I prepare for a preconception counseling appointment?
To ensure you get the most out of your preconception counseling session at Women's Global Health of Northern Virginia, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Dr. Motesharrei recommends:
- Requesting medical records from your prior OB/GYN or primary care doctor
- Making a list of all medications and dosages, including supplements
- Knowing the date of the first day of your last menstrual period
- Writing down all of your questions and concerns
Dr. Motesharrei also needs to know about your contraceptive use and what you’ve been using for birth control. If you need to have an intrauterine device (IUD) removed, she can perform that procedure during your visit.
Click on the online scheduler to book your preconception counseling appointment at Women's Global Health of Northern Virginia today. You can also call to book a visit.
