Preconception consultation is a professional service offering health assessment and advice to couples preparing for pregnancy. The aim is to help both partners understand their health status, screen for potential issues, and develop an appropriate family planning strategy to reduce pregnancy risks and ensure maternal and fetal health.
Preconception consultation services include:
● Physical health check
Evaluates the overall health of both partners, including blood pressure, weight, heart health, and endocrine function, ensuring they are in optimal condition for pregnancy.
● Genetic risk assessment
Screens for hereditary diseases or genetic abnormalities, providing expert advice to reduce the risk of birth defects. Key tests include:
- Blood type and Rh factor test: Ensures compatibility to prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus/newborn caused by Rh incompatibility.
- Thalassemia screening: Detects carrier status to avoid passing the gene to offspring.
- Hepatitis B antigen and antibody tests: Checks for HBV infection or immunity, protecting partners’ health and preventing mother-to-child transmission.
● Vaccine status check
Confirms whether both parents have received essential vaccines such as rubella, mumps, and measles to prevent fetal infections.
● Nutritional guidance
Provides balanced diet recommendations to ensure adequate nutrient intake for a healthy pregnancy.
● Sperm and egg health evaluation
Men may undergo semen analysis to assess sperm quality; women may have ovarian function tests like AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) to evaluate ovarian reserve.
● Mental health assessment
Assesses psychological well-being of prospective parents to minimize the impact of stress and anxiety on pregnancy.
