Planning for a baby is one of life's most exciting times and crucial milestones, but it's also important to ensure your body is fully prepared for the journey ahead. In this article, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Dr. Sivahami shares why a pre-pregnancy check is a crucial step for women who want to optimise their health before conception.

From identifying potential health risks to managing pre-existing conditions, a pre-pregnancy check helps you address concerns early, ensuring both you and your future baby have the best possible start. Dr Sivahami explains the benefits and how this check can give you peace of mind as you plan for a healthy pregnancy. Common questions often arise during this stage, such as what tests are needed, how to improve fertility, and when is the best time to conceive. Understanding the answers to these can pave the way for a smoother, healthier pregnancy experience.

What is a Pre-Pregnancy Check?

An Obstetrician & Gynaecologist specialist does a pre-pregnancy check before a couple embarks on their pregnancy journey. It mainly looks at the woman’s health status and provides couples with a good head start when trying to get pregnant, increasing their chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

What Happens During the Pre-Pregnancy Check?

1. Consultation with Gynae

During a pre-pregnancy check, your gynaecologist will start with a consultation to understand your medical history and, potentially that of your husband. This helps to highlight any potential factors that may impact your pregnancy, and helps guide your gynaecologist in planning your pregnancy preparation.

It would be ideal for husbands to join their wives during this consultation as it allows the specialist to screen for certain risk factors or medical conditions in the husband that can also affect the pregnancy. However, if timing is an issue, ladies can always come in for their assessment first.

2. Physical Examination & Pelvic Ultrasound

Dr Sivahami conducting an ultrasound on a patient.

Next, your gynaecologist will perform a physical examination and a pelvic ultrasound to assess the health of your uterus and ovaries. This allows them to identify any potential concerns early on, ensuring that any necessary treatments can be addressed promptly to avoid delaying your pregnancy plans.

3. Blood Tests

Blood tests will be conducted to check for infectious diseases and conditions that could affect your pregnancy. 

A series of blood tests will then be conducted to screen for infectious diseases and conditions that could affect your pregnancy. These tests check for immunity to diseases like chickenpox and rubella, as well as for genetic conditions such as thalassemia. Based on the results, your gynaecologist can identify any underlying issues and recommend appropriate steps, such as vaccinations, to ensure you're in the best possible health before conceiving.

4. Pregnancy Preparation Tips
Finally, based on your medical history, physical examination, and blood test results, your gynaecologist will provide personalised recommendations to enhance your chances of a healthy pregnancy. Additionally, you will be advised to begin taking folic acid, which plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of birth defects in the baby's spine and brain.

A pre-pregnancy check is an invaluable step in ensuring a healthy start to your pregnancy journey. With expert guidance from Dr. Sivahami, you can address any health concerns, optimise your body for conception, and gain the clarity needed to make informed decisions. By taking proactive steps now, you not only enhance your chances of a smooth pregnancy but also create a strong foundation for the well-being of both you and your future baby. As you embark on this exciting new chapter, prioritising your health can make all the difference in your experience ahead. 

Featured Contributor:

Astra Women's Specialists
Dr Sivahami
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Astra Women's Specialists is the Women’s Health arm of Singapore Medical Group (SMG), with a network of 17 Obstetrics & Gynaecology clinics and 1 Breast Care Centre, helmed by 16 specialists dedicated to women’s health and wellness care. They believe that specialist care should be easily accessible, with their clinics ideally located in the heartlands. Their range of services includes:  

• Pregnancy
• Gynaecology
• Fertility
• Birth Control
• Laparoscopic Surgery

They are dedicated to seeing you through your health and wellness journey at every stage of life, by providing accurate content you can trust and connecting you to a comprehensive range of women’s health services.

Connect with Astra Women's Specialists on their Website, Instagram, and Facebook.

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