Expecting parents are often seen complaining that they were not warned about the challenges of pregnancy. Everybody gives them their good wishes or blessings, but what they need is verified guidance. Pre pregnancy therapy is the answer to the distress of new parents. This week on #LadiesAndBabies, we will tell you all about pre pregnancy therapy and why you must go for it.
What is Pre Pregnancy Therapy?
Therapy is often associated with mental health issues. But there is no need to be alarmed by this need. Prepregnancy counselling is a session where you, your partner and your healthcare provider discuss all the health aspects of your pregnancy. It is done to minimize the risk of adverse health effects on you and your fetus. Whether the news of your pregnancy has come as a surprise or it is the sweet fruit of your long awaiting, planning is the next step. Planning your pregnancy keeps you one step ahead for potential decision making. Pre pregnancy therapy is done to educate parents on what they should expect during the gestation period. Understanding your pregnancy will benefit you and your baby in the long-run. It is just like a visit to your gynecologist, where a detailed talk happens and the next plan of action is settled upon.What Happens During Pre Pregnancy Therapy?
Since prepregnancy counselling is a chit-chat with your doctor about your well-being, you can opt for it at any given time. Preconception care is only the first step. It is recommended that women in their reproductive age, who are wishing to conceive soon, should choose to sit for a counselling session. However, couples who are already trying should book an appointment at least three months before. Preconception care as a therapy stretch involves discussions about the following:Family history
Several health conditions run in families. These heredity conditions can affect the health of your baby. At the pre pregnancy therapy, your doctor would ask you to explain whether or not your family has a history of any medical conditions. These may include hypertension, birth defects, mental disorders, genetic disorders, and more. Your gynecologist can thus plan how to handle the likely effect of such diseases on your pregnancy.General medical history
You may have been a patient at some point in your lifetime. Your body must have been exposed to certain medications. Sometimes these illnesses are chronic and require frequent medical intervention. If you are diagnosed with some condition, your doctor will try to give proper medical management before pregnancy. You would be required to tell your gynaecologist all about your health in the past. This information gives your doctor a chance to understand which conditions may pose a risk to your health during pregnancy. At the prepregnancy counselling, your doctor may ask you to take some tests too. If you have undergone any surgeries, have allergies, or are diagnosed with a chronic illness, you must inform your doctor about it.Reproductive medical history
Besides your general health, your reproductive health is of prime interest to your doctor. This includes details of your previous pregnancies, sexual health issues like vaginal infections or STDs if any. You will be expected to open up about your reproductive health entirely. Based on the information you provide, your doctor may also suggest that you take some gynecological tests. These tests and scans give an idea of how well your pregnancy is going.Lifestyle and Behavioral advice
Preconception care includes a lot of lifestyle changes. You will have to put extra effort to maintain your well-being. Your nutritional needs will change during pregnancy. You will have to prepare your body to host the baby for nine long months. So you will be advised to start exercising. If you had any ill habits, you will most definitely have to quit them. For instance, smoking, drinking alcohol, eating loads of junk food and more. At the pre pregnancy therapy, your doctor will talk to you about all these changes and how to implement these in your life.Vaccinations
In a bid to avoid any threats to your body during pregnancy, you need to take relevant vaccines. There are certain vaccinations that you may need to take in between your pregnancy. Preconception care is incomplete without these vaccinations.Mental Health
Making a baby inside your body is no easy task. All the physical changes inside you along with a drastic change in your lifestyle may take a toll on your mental health. Prepregnancy counselling is important to address the issues that affect your mental peace. Every expecting parent reacts differently to their pregnancy. There is a wide spectrum of emotions that impact a person's health. Some couples may be anxious, nervous, scared, elated, among other things. Your doctor is available to resolve any mental conflict you face during your pregnancy.Home and workplace environment
Pregnancy may be a turning point in your life. And throughout the period, you would be needed to keep under extraordinary care. The hygiene of your home and workplace will make an impact on your well-being. At the prepregnancy counselling, your doctor will also discuss your routine. The surroundings at your workplace will also be discussed. Anything that poses a danger to your pregnancy will have to go.The Takeaway
Pre pregnancy therapy is a method to educate parents so that they can make an informed choice. When a woman knows her body well enough, she would be able to make the right decision for the best outcome of her pregnancy. After you have had your prepregnancy counselling, it is time to act on all that you have learned. You can utilize our pre pregnancy checklist to help you.Also, read about: Don't Miss These Pre-Pregnancy TestsWatch out for #LadiesAndBabies for more information on pregnancy, women and child health. For more information or free personalized guidance, speak to a Credihealth medical expert at +918010994994.
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