Planning a Pregnancy

It’s a well-known fact that fertility declines with age for both men and women. Before starting to try for a family I advise seeing either your family doctor or myself for a pre-pregnancy chat. I like to make sure that your vaccinations are up to date, as some infections can be devastating both for pregnant mothers and for unborn babies. Vaccinations against Rubella, Varicella (Chicken Pox) and Pertussis (Whooping Cough) are easily available and it is very wise to have these up to date before you plan a pregnancy.

Multivitamins including Folic Acid are encouraged. Ceasing smoking and alcohol and avoiding recreational drugs are strongly recommended well before planning a pregnancy. If you have a medical disorder, I like to optimise your medical fitness and medication and put into place other treatments, which will make your pregnancy outcome better. Some medical disorders that can affect pregnancy include diabetes, epilepsy and thyroid disorders. I like to do blood tests to exclude anaemia and iron deficiency and to check your vitamin D levels before pregnancy.