Pre-pregnancy Planning

What’s pre-pregnancy planning?

Pre-pregnancy planning visits occur when a patient plans to get pregnant in the future and wants to discuss the issue with her doctor. The visit helps the patient prepare for the future pregnancy.

Is pre-pregnancy planning necessary?

Some women get pregnant without visiting the doctor first. However, scheduling a pre-pregnancy planning visit increases the chances of a healthy pregnancy and delivery. During this visit, the patient discusses the steps she should take to ensure a healthy pregnancy, such as cutting back on caffeine and taking prenatal vitamins. Our doctors also educate the patient in regard to the best conception strategies so that she can get pregnant faster. Finally, during a pre-pregnancy planning visit, our doctors point out and/or investigate any risk factors for pregnancy complications before the patient conceives.

When should patients schedule pre-pregnancy planning visits at The Women’s Group?

Patients schedule a pre-pregnancy planning visit at least one month before they begin trying to conceive.

When should women begin taking prenatal vitamins?

As soon as a woman knows she wants to conceive, she should begin taking prenatal vitamins. Women continue taking prenatal vitamins while trying to conceive and throughout the pregnancy.

When should pregnant women schedule their first prenatal visit?

After a woman becomes pregnant, she should schedule her first prenatal visit as soon as possible. At this first visit, typically between 6 and 9 weeks from the 1st day of her last period, our staff at The Women’s Group informs her about subsequent appointments.

When should women seek treatment for infertility?

If a woman tries to conceive for 12 months without success, or if she experiences multiple miscarriages, she should schedule an appointment to investigate infertility. Women over the age of 35 should consider scheduling an appointment after 6 months of trying to conceive unsuccessfully. If you’re planning to become pregnant, call The Women’s Group or schedule your appointment online.