Preconception Consultations: Important Screenings and Vaccinations
Planning for conception is an exciting time, and ensuring your body is ready is the first step towards a healthy journey. Preconception consultations, including key screenings and vaccinations, help identify potential health issues, protect you and your future baby, and improve your chances of a smooth pregnancy.
Why Are Preconception consultations Important?
These consultations allow your Obstetrician to:
- Assess your overall health and identify any conditions that may have an impact on a pregnancy.
- Review your reproductive health
- Ensure you’re up-to-date with vaccinations to prevent infections that could harm you or your baby.
- Provide advice on lifestyle changes to optimise fertility outcomes.
Essential Pre-Pregnancy Screening
General Health Assessment:
- Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can pose risks in pregnancy
- Body Mass Index (BMI): A healthy weight supports fertility and reduces complications.
Blood Tests:
- Full Blood Count: To check for anaemia or infections.
- Blood Group and Rhesus Factor: Important for managing potential complications.
- Rubella Immunity: To ensure protection against rubella, which can cause birth defects.
- Hepatitis B & C, HIV, and Syphilis Screening: To reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.
- Varicella immunity, Iron, Vitamin D and Thyroid function tests: May be checked in certain situations.
Reproductive Health Screenings:
- Cervical Screening Test: To detect abnormal cervical cells.
- STI Screening: Checking for infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea
- Genetic Carrier Screening: To help assess your individual risks for certain inherited conditions such as cystic fibrosis or thalassaemia.
Pre-Pregnancy Vaccinations
Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting both you and your baby from serious infections. It’s important to be up-to-date before conception, as some vaccines can’t be given during pregnancy.
- Rubella: If not immune, vaccination is recommended at least one month before conception.
- Chickenpox (Varicella): If non-immune, vaccination reduces the risk of complications.
- Hepatitis B: Ensures protection against infections.
- Influenza Vaccine: Recommended before and during pregnancy to prevent severe illness.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: Safe during pregnancy and may be recommended
Lifestyle Factors to Discuss with Your Doctor
- Folic Acid and Iodine Supplements: Reduces the risk of birth defects.
- Alcohol, Smoking, and Drug Use: Discuss strategies to reduce or quit, as these affect fertility and your baby’s health.
About Dr. Ajita Basu’s approach
Your health matters before pregnancy just as much as during it. Dr. Basu provides personalised preconception care, helping you feel informed, supported, and confident as you plan for your baby.
Book a consultation today to discuss your health checks, screenings, and vaccinations. Together, we’ll ensure you’re ready for this exciting new chapter.
Learn more from our Obstetrics knowledge base
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions regarding your health.