Asheesh Mani

May 30, 2007

There are certain precautions that you may have to take while planning to have a child. You have to give due attention to health issues that may influence conception and the health of the child. Pre pregnancy planning is considered by many couples as it prepares them for healthy conception.

Health Issues During Pre Pregnancy

1. Couples who want a baby may visit a pregnancy doctor for a pre conception check up. This visit will identify any existing risk factors and how to handle them. If the mother has health problems such as epilepsy, diabetes, hypertension, heart condition, it is necessary to monitor the pregnancy carefully to avoid complications. If your pregnancy planning is done correctly, you will be made aware of the risks and will be made to take adequate precaution to take care of your health as well as that of the child.
2. A diabetic mother is at risk of conceiving a baby with birth defects, have stillbirths or miscarriages which can be avoided by monitoring her extremely carefully during pre pregnancy and pregnancy. Pregnancy high blood pressure may cause placental problems as well as growth retardation in the fetus. Some medication taken to prevent epilepsy may cause birth defects, so it may be essential to discontinue use during pre pregnancy and pregnancy or switch over to a safer drug. Women with heart complications, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Phenylketonuria, kidney problems etc. need extra care and attention from the pre pregnancy planning stage itself.
3. The weight of the woman is another important factor that may cause complications. Underweight and obese women are more susceptible to fertility problems. If your weight is ideal and you are healthy, chances of complications are considerably less. Obese women have to deal with complications such as hypertension, diabetes during pregnancy. Use the pre pregnancy planning stage to reduce weight and stay fit.
4. Some couples may have to consider genetic counseling to learn about the possible genetic disorders such as hemophilia, sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, Thalassemia, etc.
5. The physician may also enquire about their family history as well as their medical history. They may require vaccinations against infectious diseases such as German measles, hepatitis B, toxoplasmosis, chicken pox etc.
6. If the couple have a sexually transmitted disease or urinary tract infection, it is best that they get it treated in order to avoid complications during pregnancy. If they don’t they could give birth to pre-term babies and low birth weight babies. You have to be completely cured of any disease you may possibly have by the pre pregnancy planning stage.
7. Smoking, excessive alcohol abuse, drug abuse is not recommended as they have been known to cause birth defects in the fetus as well as pose a threat to the health of mother and child.
8. Exposure to solvents, heavy metals, radiation, chemicals etc. may cause birth defects in the infant.
9. Stress is another factor that may influence fertility, conception as well as the health of the mother and child. Stress management techniques and trying to stay calm in general, may benefit the mother. If the partner is supportive, attentive and exhibits interest in planning for the child, it may help calm the mother.
10. Foods such as green leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, fruits, bread, rice, pasta, dry fruits and nuts, milk and yoghurt etc. are recommended. Folic acid and multi-vitamin supplements are also recommended from the pre pregnancy planning stage. Stay health, fit and have a safe pregnancy and childbirth.

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