When should you start thinking about the health of your baby" Ideally, before you even get pregnant. ?About three months before trying to conceive, I?d suggest going for a preconception check-up [with your doctor],? says Batya Grundland, maternity care lead at Women?s College Hospital?s Family Practice Health Centre. Though it?s not mandatory, this appointment is a great first step toward optimal health for you and your baby. Here?s what your doctor will do during this visit.
Emphasize the importance of prenatal vitamins
?We want all women to be on prenatal vitamins, or at least folic acid, for three months prior to conceiving,? explains Grundland. That?s because folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects (problems with development of the brain, spine or spinal cord), which can develop in the first weeks of pregnancy?even before you get a positive pregnancy test. Discuss genetic screening
Your doctor will also ask about any health problems that run in your family. ?Your doctor will take a family history to identify if you?re at a higher risk and if you should see someone to discuss genetic counselling before you start trying to conceive,? says Deanna Telner, a family physician with the South East Toronto Family Health Team. The discussion will include your family history of congenital abnormalities, Down syndrome and cystic fibrosis.
Review your medications
?There are risks to taking some medications and over-the-counter herbal supplements during pregnancy, so you...