Advice Before Pregnancy

Price

Varies

Turnaround

Varies

Appointment

30 - 60 minutes

Female Doctor Consulting Young Couple Patients & giving advice before pregnancy
4.8
4.8/5
4.7
4.7/5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

Your support when trying to get pregnant

The support of an obstetrician is invaluable when you are trying to conceive.

Our team of highly experienced and compassionate obstetricians is ready to address any concerns you may have, help you achieve optimal health for conception, and ensure that your pregnancy is as safe and healthy as possible.

Please get in touch to schedule an appointment. We are here to support you every step of the way.

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Pregnancy Wellness

For the best start, it is imperative to stop smoking and drinking alcohol when trying to conceive and throughout your pregnancy. Both smoking and alcohol can negatively impact your baby’s health.

If you have any existing health conditions before conceiving, we encourage you to consult a doctor. They can offer guidance on managing these conditions during pregnancy and suggest ways to minimise any risks.

Achieving a healthy weight (a BMI of 25 or below) can also help reduce your risk of common pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and blood clots (thrombosis). Folic acid is a crucial safeguard against neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, where the spinal cord does not form properly, and helps to protect your unborn baby.

Additionally, some vaccinations are recommended to ensure both your health and your baby’s well-being. It is a good idea to check that your measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination is up to date, as rubella can pose risks to a developing baby if contracted during pregnancy.

Understanding Fertility

The menstrual cycle typically lasts 28 days but can range from 21 to 35 days and includes menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal phases. Ovulation, occurring around 14 days before the next period, is the best time for conception.

Track ovulation by noting clear, stretchy cervical mucus, a slight rise in basal body temperature, or using ovulation kits that detect LH surges. For conception, have intercourse during the fertile window, which spans from five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation.

Begin taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid at least three months before trying to conceive.

Woman doctor smiling
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Addressing Common Issues

Fertility often declines with age, particularly for women after the age of 35, while men experience a more gradual decrease. Various medical conditions can also impact fertility; conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and thyroid disorders may hinder reproductive capabilities and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

For men, sperm health is another critical factor; aspects such as sperm count, motility, and morphology play significant roles. Lifestyle choices, including smoking and exposure to excessive heat, can negatively affect sperm quality.

Statistics​

of cervical cancer cases are preventable
0 %
women are affected by endometriosis
0 In 10
women are affected by PCOS
0 In 10
New cases of uterine cancer, 2016-2018, UK
0

Essential Nutrients

When trying to conceive, prenatal vitamins are important for ensuring you and your baby get the essential nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.

  • Folic Acid: Crucial for preventing neural tube defects. Aim for at least 400-800 mcg daily.
  • Iron: Supports increased blood volume and helps prevent anaemia.
  • Calcium: Important for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth.
  • Vitamin D: Helps with calcium absorption and supports immune function.
  • DHA: An omega-3 fatty acid important for brain and eye development.
  • Iodine: Essential for thyroid function and fetal development.
  • Vitamin B12: Important for nerve function and red blood cell production.

How To Book A Private Doctor Appointment?

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Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.

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On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

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You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.

The Procedure

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Pre-Appointment

Collect any relevant medical records, including past health conditions, surgeries, and medications. This will help your healthcare provider understand your health history. Be prepared to discuss your family’s medical history, as some conditions can be hereditary. Think about any questions or concerns you might have regarding pregnancy, such as diet, exercise, or genetic testing.

during the appointment

Appointment

Your doctor will review your medical and family history to assess any potential risks. You may undergo a physical examination to check your overall health, including a pelvic examination if necessary. Expect to have blood tests to ensure you are up-to-date on vaccines such as rubella and varicella, and, if needed, to check for any sexually transmitted infections that could affect pregnancy.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

Once your test results come back, your doctor will review them with you and discuss any further steps if needed. If everything looks good, you can start planning for pregnancy. If there are any concerns, your doctor will guide you on how to address them.

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Will my nutritional needs change during pregnancy?
Yes. One of the main recommendations for all pregnant women is to take a 400mcg supplement of folic acid every day, from the time they are trying to conceive until 12 weeks into the pregnancy. Dietary changes can also be helpful. Your obstetrician can discuss these with you.
What other lifestyle changes are recommended for pregnant women?
Both smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can affect the health of a baby in the womb. If you are overweight, getting your BMI to 25 or below before becoming pregnant can reduce your risk of gestational diabetes. Some vaccinations are also recommended.
Why is folic acid important during pregnancy?
Folic acid reduces the risk of your baby developing neural tube defects, such as spina bidifa, which affect the formation of the spinal cord.

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