Getting pregnant is a beautiful journey. It is, however, important to remember that when it comes to pregnancy, planning is crucial. One of the most important parts of planning for a pregnancy is pre-pregnancy checkups.

Pre-pregnancy checkups are medical appointments that you have with your healthcare provider before trying to conceive. These checkups are recommended for all women who are planning to become pregnant.

The goal of pre-pregnancy checkups is to help you identify any health issues that could affect your pregnancy and to make sure you are as healthy as possible for your baby.

Medical History Check

The first thing your healthcare provider will do during a pre-pregnancy checkup is take a detailed medical history.

They will ask you questions about your past pregnancies, surgeries, medications, vaccinations, and any health problems you have or have had in the past. Your healthcare provider will also ask if you have any family history of genetic disorders or congenital disabilities.

Routine Physical Exam

During a pre-pregnancy checkup, your healthcare provider will also perform a routine physical exam. This exam includes a pelvic exam, to check for any signs of infection or abnormal growths in the reproductive system.

A breast exam may also be performed, to check for any lumps or abnormalities.

Blood Tests

There are several blood tests that you may need to have during your pre-pregnancy checkup. These tests include:.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) – This test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood.
Blood Type – Knowing your blood type is important in case you need a transfusion during pregnancy.
Rubella Immunity – Rubella is a viral infection that can cause serious birth defects. If you are not immune, you will need to get vaccinated before becoming pregnant.
Hepatitis B and C – These are viral infections that can be passed from mother to baby during childbirth.
Syphilis – Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious complications if left untreated.

STI Testing

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. STIs can cause serious health problems, especially during pregnancy.

During your pre-pregnancy checkup, your healthcare provider will likely test you for STIs, including:.

Chlamydia – Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can cause infertility and other reproductive problems if left untreated.
Gonorrhea – Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that can cause serious complications if left untreated, including ectopic pregnancy and infertility.
Herpes – Herpes is a viral infection that can cause painful sores on the genitals or mouth. If you have genital herpes, your healthcare provider will help you manage the infection during pregnancy to reduce the risk of passing it to your baby.
HIV – HIV is a viral infection that attacks the immune system. If you have HIV, you will need to take medication to protect your baby during pregnancy.

Folic Acid Supplementation

Folic acid is a B vitamin that is essential for the healthy development of a baby’s brain and spinal cord. Women who are planning to become pregnant should start taking a folic acid supplement at least one month before they start trying to conceive.

During your pre-pregnancy checkup, your healthcare provider will likely recommend a daily folic acid supplement of 400-800 micrograms.

Lifestyle Changes

During your pre-pregnancy checkup, your healthcare provider will also talk to you about any lifestyle changes that you need to make before getting pregnant. This may include:.

Quitting smoking
Limiting alcohol intake
Reducing caffeine intake
Eating a healthy diet
Starting an exercise program

Conclusion

Pre-pregnancy checkups are an important part of planning for a healthy pregnancy. These checkups help you identify any health issues that could affect your pregnancy and make sure you are as healthy as possible for your baby.

During a pre-pregnancy checkup, your healthcare provider will take your medical history, perform a physical exam, order blood tests, test you for STIs, recommend folic acid supplementation, and talk to you about any lifestyle changes that you need to make before getting pregnant.