Preconception care

A preconception clinic provides women who are planning to become pregnant, or have just become pregnant, an opportunity to discuss pregnancy matters with a consultant Obstetrician. The advice given and possible steps taken are all aimed at reducing possible risks to your unborn baby, and reducing the risk of pregnancy related complications.

At the preconception clinic you can discuss the do’s and don’t of pregnancy. For example general pregnancy advice on stopping smoking, reducing alcohol, eating a healthy diet and folic acid supplementation can be discussed. You may have other issues such as a medical condition yourself or a medical condition that runs in the family. The affect of this condition in your pregnancy or on your unborn child can be explained and appropriate steps or investigations arranged.

Will I benefit from a visit to the clinic? The answer is yes if you wish to know more about any of the following:

• Do’s and dont’s of pregnancy
• Previous pregnancy problems
• Your medication
• Medical conditions which affect yourself or your family
• Screening tests in pregnancy, for instance Down’s screening