Preconception Planning

Preconception planning helps you prepare for a healthy pregnancy

Are you thinking about getting pregnant? When you are preparing for pregnancy, there are steps you can take to help you have the healthiest pregnancy possible. Our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs can get your pregnancy off to a good start with a preconception planning appointment.

Your health history helps our physicians identify issues that could affect your pregnancy

It’s helpful to know whether you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or depression, which might affect your pregnancy. Knowing about medical issues in advance can help our OB/GYNs prepare to handle potential problems before and during your pregnancy. You and your doctor may discuss several issues.

  • Your current and past health history

  • Your family’s health history

  • Medications you take

  • Your weight

  • Your activity level

  • Your diet

  • Your birth control method

  • Smoking, drinking and other habits

  • Your home and work environment

  • Your vaccines

What happens at a preconception planning appointment?

Your preconception planning checkup has many of the same components as any other visit to our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs. Our team takes your weight, height and blood pressure. Our physicians perform a physical, including a pelvic examination. They also talk to you about issues that can affect your pregnancy.

  • Thoroughly discuss your medical and family history.

  • Order bloodwork for genetic, infectious disease or coagulation issues, if appropriate.

  • Discuss any potential genetic issues that may require a visit to a genetic counselor or genetic testing.

  • Talk about the importance of folic acid for your baby’s health.

  • Find out which vaccines you have had and which ones you might need.

A healthy lifestyle is a vital part of preparing for pregnancy

Examining your lifestyle is another important part of preconception planning. Our OB/GYNs have several suggestions to follow in the weeks and months before you try to get pregnant.

  • Stop drinking alcohol.

  • Stop smoking.

  • Try to lose or gain weight safely to get yourself in a healthy weight range.

  • Start or continue exercising.

  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.

  • Avoid raw eggs, raw or undercooked meat, kitty litter and animal feces to reduce your risk of contracting certain infections.

  • Take a prenatal daily vitamin that contains 400 micrograms of folic acid.

  • Avoid harmful chemicals at your job or at home.

Rely on our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs for expert pregnancy care

Start your pregnancy journey with preconception planning. You can rely on our OB/GYNs while you are preparing for pregnancy, carrying your baby and giving birth. Contact us for an appointment.