Preconception Care

Preconception care is the health care and advice offered before you become pregnant. It helps you prepare your body and mind for pregnancy and can improve outcomes for both you and your baby.

Why is Preconception Care Important?

Good preparation can:

Reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy
Lower the chance of miscarriage and birth defects
Improve your baby’s growth and development
Help you feel healthier and more confident when planning a pregnancy

Folic Acid and Vitamins

Take folic acid 400 mcg daily at least 3 months before conception and until 12 weeks of pregnancy

You may need 5mg folic acid daily if you have:

Diabetes
Have a BMI over 30
Take certain medication e.g. anti-epileptics
Have a family history of neural tube defects

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before starting supplements.

Long -Term Health Conditions

If you have a medical condition such as:

Diabetes
High blood pressure
Asthma
Thyroid disease
Epilepsy
Mental health conditions

Please arrange a preconception review with your GP or nurse. Medication adjustment and monitoring may be needed before pregnancy.

Medication

Some medications are not safe in pregnancy
Do not stop any prescribed medication without medical advice
Your GP can review and adjust medication safely before you try to conceive

Healthy Lifestyle

Weight
- Aim for a healthy weight before pregnancy
- Being underweight or overweight can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes

Diet
- Eat a balanced diet with fruit and vegetables, whole grains, protein and dairy or alternatives
- Avoid foods high in sugar and saturated fats

Exercise
- Regular moderate exercise e.g. Walking and swimming is encouraged

Smoking, Alcohol and Substances
- Stop smoking – smoking affects fertility and increases pregnancy risks
- Avoid Alcohol when trying to conceive
- Avoid recreational drugs

Support is available through the GP practice if needed

Infections and Immunisations
- Ensure you are up to date with MMR (measles mumps and rubella) and other routine vaccinations
- If you are not immune to rubella, vaccination is recommended before pregnancy
- Practice safe sex and consider screening for sexually transmitted infections if appropriate

Mental and emotional Wellbeing
- Planning a pregnancy can be an emotional time
- If you have a history of anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns support and planning can help, ensure continuity of care

Genetic and Family History
- Inform your midwife/GP if there is a family history of genetic conditions, inherited disorders or pregnancy complications.

When to Seek Advice

Please contact the GP practice if:

You are planning a pregnancy
You have been trying to conceive for 12 months (or over 6 months if over 35)
You have a long-term medical condition or take regular medication

How we can Help

Our GP practice can offer:

Periconceptional health checks
Medication reviews
Lifestyle and weight management advice
Referral to specialist services if required