Your Comprehensive Guide to Pre-pregnancy Counselling

You must have dreamed of holding a tiny, precious baby in your arms! That moment when you first gaze into your newborn’s eyes is magical, but the journey to get there? It’s an adventure that begins long before you see those two pink lines on a pregnancy test. Let us introduce you to pre-pregnancy counselling – your first step towards a positive birth experience.

Now, you might be thinking, “Pre-pregnancy counselling? Isn’t that just for people with health issues?” Not at all! Whether you’re a picture of health or managing a chronic health condition, this invaluable service can benefit everyone dreaming of starting or expanding their family.

So, what exactly happens during pre-pregnancy counselling? Think of it as a friendly chat with a knowledgeable professional who’s there to listen, advise, and support you. It’s all about setting you up for success and giving your future little one the best possible start in life.

Let’s break it down- 

Medical History 

First up, we’ll chat about your medical history. If you have any chronic conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues, we’ll work on getting them under control. Since many health conditions have a genetic link, we would inquire about your family’s medical history to assess any potential pregnancy-related risks you may face. For instance, if your mother experienced pregnancy-related conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or prenatal depression, you may have a higher likelihood of encountering them as well. We will provide guidance on risk reduction strategies and closely monitor your health to diagnose and manage these conditions early, if needed. Sometimes, medications would also need a bit of tweaking to ensure they’re pregnancy-friendly.

Nutrition

Next, we’ll talk nutrition! Preparing for pregnancy is the perfect time to fall in love with fruits and veggies! We’ll guide you towards a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and proteins. And yes, we might gently suggest swapping that late-night pizza for a more nutrient-packed option. Expect well-planned and meticulously crafted nutrition suggestions tailored for you at our midwife birthing centre.

Lifestyle 

Lifestyle changes are next on our list. You’ll be exploring how gentle exercises like yoga or walking can boost your fertility and prepare your body for the changes ahead. If you’re burning the midnight oil at work, we might discuss ways to shift to a more pregnancy-friendly schedule. After all, good sleep is crucial for both you and your future baby.

Genetics 

Now, let’s talk genes. We’ll take a look at your family history, especially if you and your partner are blood relatives. Some genetic conditions can be sneaky, but with early screening, we can often identify potential issues before they become problems. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your future child’s health.

Immunisation

Heard of the rubella vaccine? The rubella vaccine is crucial for protecting your future baby from serious birth defects. Given as part of the MMR shot, it requires a three-month waiting period before trying to conceive. At Aastrika, we’ll help you time this vaccination perfectly, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your pregnancy planning journey while maximising protection for your little one.

Timing

Understanding your body’s rhythm is key to conception. We’ll help you decode your ovulation cycle, pinpointing your most fertile days. You’ll learn to recognise subtle body changes signalling ovulation. Frequent intercourse during this window can significantly boost your chances of success. 

Dental care

We suggest scheduling a dental check-up before you get pregnant to address any cavities or root canals. Dental treatments during pregnancy can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, might lead to complications, so it’s best to handle these issues beforehand.

At Aastrika Midwifery Centre, we’re passionate about empowering you with knowledge and support as you embark on this incredible journey. Our pre-pregnancy counselling is just the beginning of the comprehensive maternity care in Bangalore. Remember, every great adventure starts with a single step. Why not make that step a visit to our midwife birthing centre? Let’s work together to turn your dream of a healthy, happy family into a beautiful reality. After all, the journey to parenthood should be just as magical as the destination itself.