PRE-CONCEPTION CARE

This is a medical care and advice given to women and couples who want to get a baby. This aims to identify and manage any health issues that could affect pregnancy, ensuring the best possible outcome for both the number of components such as mother and the baby.

Preconception care has a number of components such as;

1. Medical history which involves review of medical conditions like diabetes ,hypertension and other disorders in the body, such us hormonal imbalances.

2. Surgical history that is related to reproductive health.

3. Medication review-identify any drug that these couples are on including the dosages and their potential effects on the pregnancy.

Women who intend to get pregnant are encouraged to seek for screening on sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, Syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and others that may affect the reproductive tract and inclusive of up-to-date vaccination.

The lifestyle counselling on;

1. The diet and nutrition is emphasized such as folic acid supplements, and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol, smoking, tobacco etc.

2. Exercise and physical activity recommendations  for safe exercise during pregnancy.

3. Genetic counselling such as;

   • Family medical history on disorders and conditions that may affect the baby.

   • Carrier screening such as sickle cell disease.

Benefits of preconception care

• Improved pregnancy outcome hence reducing risk pregnancy complication and birth defects.

• Early detection, diagnosis and management of health issues before pregnancy.

• Increased fertility through optimization of reproductive  health and fertility.

• Early birth preparedness through health education sessions ,counselling on healthy pregnancy habits and life style choices.

When to seek preconception care

1. At least 3-6 month before trying to get pregnant to allow time for health issues to be addressed and for lifestyle changes to take effect.

2. Sooner if there are preexisting medical condition such that immediate evaluation and management of health issues can improve pregnancy outcomes.

By seeking preconception care, women and couples can take proactive steps to ensure a healthy pregnancy and the best possible start for their baby.

Clinison Medical Centre team is ready to offer this comprehensive services through creating community awareness in the outreaches conducted outside the facility.

Connect with the team through our website on www.clinisonmedical.com and call us on +256 704 007172 or +256 763 172308

Your health is our priority

Author: Agojo Esther Sharon – E/MIDWIFE

Ref:

1. FIGO pre conception checklist.

2. Meta AI analysis.

3. H.A Wahabi.