Preconception Checkup: What Should Couples Check Before Trying for a Baby?
Planning for a baby is an important step for both partners. A preconception checkup helps identify health concerns, review medications, update vaccinations and prepare the body for a healthy pregnancy.
At Motherly Hospitals, we encourage couples to discuss their health and pregnancy plans with a doctor before trying to conceive. Early preparation can help identify concerns and allow time to address them.
1. Review Overall Health
A doctor may review the health history of both partners.
Important areas include:
- Previous illnesses or surgeries
- Previous pregnancies and their outcomes
- Menstrual and reproductive history
- Existing medical conditions
- Current symptoms or health concerns
- Previous fertility problems
- Family medical history
Sharing complete and accurate information helps your doctor plan appropriate care.
2. Check Existing Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions may need to be well controlled before pregnancy.
Your doctor may review conditions such as:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Thyroid disorders
- Anaemia
- Asthma
- Epilepsy
- Kidney problems
- Heart conditions
- Other long-term health conditions
Good control of existing conditions before pregnancy can help reduce pregnancy-related risks.
3. Review All Medicines
Some medicines may need to be changed before pregnancy.
Make a list of:
- Prescription medicines
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Vitamins
- Herbal products
- Health supplements
Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
Your doctor can decide whether a medicine is suitable, needs adjustment or should be changed before conception.
4. Start Folic Acid
Folic acid is one of the most important supplements to consider before pregnancy.
- A common recommendation is 400 micrograms of folic acid daily.
- It is recommended to start at least one month before pregnancy.
- Continue taking it during early pregnancy as advised.
- Folic acid helps reduce the risk of certain birth defects affecting the baby’s brain and spine.
- Some women may need a higher dose because of specific medical or pregnancy-related factors.
Always ask your doctor which dose is appropriate for you.
5. Check Vaccination Status
Vaccination history should be reviewed before trying for a baby.
Your doctor may check protection against infections such as:
- Rubella
- Measles
- Hepatitis B
- Other recommended infections
Some vaccines are recommended before pregnancy rather than during pregnancy. For example, the MMR vaccine should be given before pregnancy when indicated.
6. Consider Recommended Health Tests
The tests needed can differ for each couple.
Depending on your health history, your doctor may recommend:
- Blood tests
- Blood group testing
- Haemoglobin testing
- Blood sugar testing
- Thyroid testing
- Infection screening
- Other tests based on medical history
Not every couple needs the same set of tests. Your doctor can recommend testing based on individual needs.
7. Review Family and Genetic History
Family history can provide useful information before pregnancy.
Tell your doctor if either partner has a family history of:
- Genetic conditions
- Birth defects
- Chromosomal conditions
- Developmental disorders
- Certain inherited diseases
- Repeated pregnancy losses
If there are relevant concerns, your doctor may recommend genetic counselling or carrier screening before pregnancy.
8. Check Lifestyle Habits
Healthy habits are important before conception.
Couples should work toward:
- Stopping smoking and tobacco use
- Avoiding alcohol
- Avoiding recreational drugs
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating balanced meals
- Getting regular physical activity
- Getting adequate sleep
- Managing daily stress
Avoiding harmful substances before pregnancy can support the health of both parents and the future baby.
9. Focus on Nutrition
A balanced diet provides important nutrients before pregnancy.
Include:
- Vegetables and leafy greens
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Pulses and beans
- Protein-rich foods
- Dairy or suitable alternatives
- Healthy sources of fats
- Adequate fluids
Folate-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables, beans and oranges can also contribute to a healthy diet.
10. Review Previous Pregnancy History
If the couple has had a previous pregnancy, discuss the history with the doctor.
Mention:
- Previous miscarriage
- Premature birth
- Stillbirth
- Pregnancy complications
- Previous caesarean delivery
- Previous baby with a birth defect
- Fertility treatment
- Any complications during an earlier pregnancy
This information can help your doctor plan appropriate care for the next pregnancy.
11. Prepare for a Healthy Pregnancy
Before trying to conceive, couples can prepare by:
- Scheduling a preconception appointment
- Organising previous medical records
- Reviewing medicines and supplements
- Updating vaccinations when needed
- Starting recommended folic acid
- Improving diet and lifestyle habits
- Managing existing medical conditions
- Discussing family and genetic history
Motherly Hospitals: Preparing You Before Pregnancy
A preconception checkup is not only about testing. It is an opportunity to understand your health, identify possible concerns and make a practical plan before pregnancy.
At Motherly Hospitals, we support couples with preconception guidance, health assessments and personalised medical advice to help them prepare for their pregnancy journey.
Every couple has different health needs, so the recommended tests and advice may vary from person to person.
Our family-centered approach to healthcare ensures that each member of your family receives personalized attention.
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