Preconception Checklist for Women

While older moms, especially those over 35 should definitely get one, it is important for all women planning on trying to conceive to do so as well. Age should definitely not be the only determinant of whether or not to get a preconception checkup. Not only does such a checkup identify early on any potential fertility issues, it also ensures that you have as trouble-free a pregnancy as possible. In addition, you will be giving your baby the best start possible.

Before going for your preconception visit with your doctor, make a list of questions you have and prepare a list of answers for questions your doctor will have for you.Your doctor or healthcare provider will want background information on your overall medical history, lifestyle habits of both you and your spouse. As such they will seek information having to do with some of the following: 

• How regular your periods are
• Your full medical history, as well as of that of your family and your spouse and his family
• Questions about your lifestyle, are you or your spouse smokers, do you drink, exercise regularly, do you have pets or engage in gardening
• Were you on birth control, what type and when did you stop
• Have you ever had an abnormal pap smear
• What vaccinations/immunizations you have had
• If you have been pregnant before was it a trouble-free pregnancy, and if not, what happened

Some of the questions may seem odd, but they are important. For example having pets or engaging in gardening exposes you to toxoplasmosis. This is a serious condition for fetuses and newborns, but is fairly harmless for adults. The parasites that cause toxoplasmosis can lead to an infection of the placenta. The condition can lead to stillbirths and other long-term medical issues for your child. Questions you may have: 

• Is there anything I can do to make conceiving easier/quicker
• Your diet. with all the contradicting information on foods and pregnancy, you may have concerns
• Am I at my best weight
• Can I continue to exercise at the same level
• What supplements to take or stop taking
• Can you continue taking your prescription medication

Do not be afraid to ask your questions, no matter how silly you may think they are. For one, it is almost a given that your health care provider would have heard them all before, but your peace of mind is important so get the answers you want.