Your health and wellbeing prior to pregnancy have the ability to impact conception, your health during pregnancy and the health of your baby. A nutrient rich diverse food intake focussed on whole food intake will help support your nutrition. Supplements including iodine and folate are recommended for most women and tailored supplementation of additional vitamins and minerals such as iron and vitamin D may be recommended depending on your individual circumstances. Caffeine intake should be limited and alcohol and other harmful substances include cigarettes and vaping are to be avoided. Participating in regular moderate exercise will help maintain your overall health and can improve your fertility.

Many medical conditions can affect conception, your pregnancy journey and the health of your baby. Ensuring your health is well managed, any chronic illnesses are stable and that the medications you are taking are suitable are important parts of preparing for a pregnancy. Having a detailed discussion with your doctor allows you to make informed choices about you and your baby's wellbeing and provides you with clear information about your health throughout pregnancy.

An important part of preparing for pregnancy includes looking after your emotional health. In taking care of your mental wellbeing you can improve your chances of conceiving, and reduce your risk of perinatal anxiety and depression. Managing stress, building strong communication with your partner and support network and practicing positive lifestyle habits are protective will help enhance your mental wellbeing. Our team of GPs and psychologists are here to support you in readiness for this important phase of life.

Genetic carrier screening is available for you and your reproductive partner to determine if you are at of passing on a genetic condition to your children. Options include blood and saliva testing and a range of tests are on offer depending on your circumstances and preferences. To find out more discuss this with your doctor as part of your pre pregnancy counselling. More information is also available at https://www.vcgs.org.au/prepair-carrier-screening/

Optimising partner health at least 3 months prior to conception can have a positive impact on fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise, a well balanced diet and avoidance of smoking, vaping and harmful substances are all important factors in reproductive health. If your partner has any chronic medical conditions or is taking any prescribed medications a review by their GP is also a key part of preparing for a pregnancy

You can book to see one of our Women's Health GPs for pre pregnancy counseling at anytime. Should you have a medical condition or other concerns that mean you would benefit from seeing one of our specialist obstetricians then a referral is required. You can also see our naturopath, dietician and acupuncture team as part of your pre-pregnancy wellbeing and no referral is required.