Essential Tests When Planning for Pregnancy

What is a preconception checkup and why is it important?

Your healthcare practitioner can ensure that your body is prepared for pregnancy with the aid of a preconception checkup. Get your check-up from the medical professional you wish to look after you during your pregnancy, if at all possible. A preconception examination can be scheduled at any time, up to a year before you intend to become pregnant.

Certain medical disorders can have an impact on pregnancy and fertility, including diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, and being overweight or underweight. They may also be impacted by smoking or misusing illegal or prescribed substances. Your healthcare professional can assist you in changing your lifestyle and managing medical issues so that your baby is born healthy. Planning ahead for pregnancy often includes gentle steps toward preconception preparation that support your health before conception.

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Get screened for preconception even if you are a mother already. It's possible that since your last pregnancy, your health has changed. Your healthcare practitioner might be able to assist you in avoiding a repeat of a previous pregnancy issue if you had one. Seek a preconception evaluation if you have experienced:

• Premature birth
• A baby with birth defects
• Miscarriage
• Stillbirth

What provider do you see for a preconception checkup?

Get your preconception checkup from the doctor who will treat you after you become pregnant, generally known as your prenatal care provider, if at all possible. You have several options — physicians, nurses, midwives — each offering different forms of support along the way. Sometimes choosing between them can contribute to mild decision fatigue, especially if it’s your first time planning a pregnancy.

• Obstetrician (OB)
• Family practice physician
• MFM specialist
• Family nurse practitioner (FNP)
• Women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP)
• Midwife (CNM, CM, CPM)

What happens at a preconception checkup?

At your preconception checkup, your provider checks your overall health to make sure your body is ready for pregnancy. You and your provider can talk about:

• Folic acid. It supports healthy fetal development and lowers the risk of neural tube defects. Many people also explore gentle supplement options when reviewing vitamins for pregnancy planning before conception.
• Health conditions that can affect pregnancy. Diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, weight concerns, STIs, and hereditary conditions. Your provider may suggest gathering your family health history or speaking with a genetic counselor.
• Medicines you take. Your provider will review prescription medications, OTC drugs, herbal products, and supplements. For some couples, reviewing medication costs and planning appointments can add a layer of financial stress while preparing for pregnancy.
• Vaccinations. Ensuring you are protected from infections like rubella and chickenpox before pregnancy is important.
• Smoking, alcohol, or drug use. If needed, your provider can help you quit. Some couples also support each other by building simple daily habits that make healthy changes easier.
• Unsafe chemicals at home or work. Your provider can discuss ways to reduce exposure.
• When to stop using birth control. Stopping contraception a few months before trying to conceive helps your cycles regulate naturally. As cycles return, some people also notice emotional shifts linked to the emotions and menstrual cycle.

Your provider may also:

• Check your blood pressure and weight
• Perform a pelvic exam
• Do a Pap test
• Test your blood type and Rh factor
• Recommend a genetic counselor if needed

What tests can you get before pregnancy to learn about genetic conditions?

You can get carrier screening tests before pregnancy. These tests check whether you carry certain gene variants that could be passed to your baby.

• Cystic fibrosis
• Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
• Thalassemias
• Hemoglobinopathies

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Additional conditions screened based on family or ethnic background include Fragile X syndrome and Tay Sachs disease. If you or your partner are carriers and pursuing IVF, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) allows embryos to be tested before implantation.

Do you need a dental checkup before pregnancy?

Yes. Gum disease has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight, so treating dental issues beforehand may help protect both you and your baby. Inform your dentist if you plan to become pregnant, or if you are already pregnant when you come in. And if the preparation stage ever feels emotionally heavy, gentle support from Mental Health AI can make this transition feel more manageable.