Checklist: Preconception checkup questions

Posted Friday, March 23, 2007 6:32 PM

A preconception visit is a smart move for anyone TTC, but particularly those on their first baby, or with any underlying health concerns or problems with previous pregnancies. It’s best to schedule the appointment at least three months before you plan to start trying to leave enough time for any vaccines you may need. These questions should get you started:

[  ] Am I at risk for any problems? Do I need to take any specific precautions?

[  ] Is my weight ok?

[  ] Is my future child at risk for any genetic conditions? Do you recommend genetic testing?

[  ] Are all my immunizations up to date?

[  ] Are there any health problems or conditions I should take care of before trying to conceive?

[  ] Are all the medications I’m currently on safe? If not, what can I do or take instead?

[  ] Will the birth control I was taking have any effect? How long after I stop taking it will I able to get pregnant?

[  ] Is there any exercise or physical activity that will increase or decrease my chances of conceiving? What are some general guidelines?

[  ] What kind of diet should I eat, and what should I avoid? What about… Caffeine? Alcohol? Cigarettes?

[  ] Can you recommend a prenatal vitamin?

[  ] Are there any environmental exposures I should avoid?

[  ] Should I steer clear of any over-the-counter medications?

[  ] At what time of month do I have best chance of conceiving?

[  ] What can my husband and I do to increase the odds of getting pregnant?

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