MYF 69 | Preconception Care Checklist: What to Discuss with Your Doctor Before Pregnancy
Welcome to Episode 69!
In episode 69, we discuss what you should be talking to your doctor about when it comes to preconception care. In other words, how to make sure you receive important medical care that can help you prepare for the healthiest possible pregnancy, starting at least 3 months before you want to get pregnant. The current reality in the U.S. is that only about half of doctors are aware of the current preconception care guidelines and even fewer of them are actively sharing the full list of these topics and interventions with their patients. The purpose of today’s episode is to help you have a better understanding of what the preconception guidelines are and why they’re important so you can prepare for your doctor’s appointments and ensure you get the best care possible.
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Show Notes:
2:40 What preconception care means and why it’s so important
7:40 Medical conditions that can impact fertility and risk for pregnancy complications
13:00 Medications and supplements that should be considered and possibly discontinued before pregnancy
18:45 Recommendations for both partners on alcohol, caffeine, and marijuana during preconception
26:25 Genetic testing for inherited conditions (expanded carrier screening)
32:30 Testing for immunity to certain infections and considering certain vaccinations
38:45 STI, Zika, and toxoplasmosis screening/prevention
43:10 Comprehensive thyroid screening and treatment
49:45 Additional labs that you’ll want to ask for – vitamin D, iron, homocysteine, HbA1c