Pregnancy Questions to ask your gynaecologist before planning it, Dr. Meenakshi Ahuja explains!
Important Pregnancy questions you should ask your Gynaecologist before planning it
Getting pregnant is a beautiful feeling. Becoming a parent is an altogether different experience. To simply put, it’s surreal to hold someone who is a part of your body and heart. But it is important to plan the pregnancy properly. As a couple, you both should ask a few questions to each other to your gynecologist as well. We have listed down a few pregnancy questions to ask your gynaecologist before planning it.
1. When should I stop using birth control? : There are many misconceptions about birth control, and when you should stop using it. Often, women find that it will take some time for contraceptives to leave their system so that they can become pregnant. Still, with many oral and barrier contraceptives, you can have a baby almost immediately. Some types of birth control, such as implants and IUDs, must be removed by your provider. Ask your gynaecologist when is the best time to stop using your particular method.
2. Will my health condition affect my fertility? : If you have a chronic medical condition, such as epilepsy or diabetes, your doctor can adjust your medication and explain any special care you need beforehand. You should also ask your gynecologist if you have had a history of irregular periods, abnormal Pap smears, surgery on your cervix, sexually transmitted infections, ectopic pregnancy, termination, or any other gynecological surgery.
3. Should I change my diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle habits? : Being underweight or overweight can reduce your fertility and lead to pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and miscarriage. Excessive exercise, alcohol consumption and smoking can also have negative effects on your fertility and pregnancy. Have an open conversation with your doctor about proper diet, right amount of weight gain, exercise and your lifestyle habits.
4. Should I take prenatal vitamins? : Your gynecologist will almost certainly answer this question with an emphatic “yes”. If you’re thinking about getting pregnant, you should go ahead and start taking an over-the-counter prenatal vitamin with folic acid because you don’t know exactly when you’ll conceive. Folic acid may help reduce the chance of neural tube defects (brain and spine problems).
5. Should I get any fertility tests done? : If you and your partner are trying to have a baby but haven’t been able to, you may start to wonder if you should get fertility tests. You should ask your gynecologist this question. This question is a must for you.
6. How can I maximize my chances of getting pregnant? : This is a question on the minds of many women who are ready to have a family, especially if they are concerned that their age may be a factor. assuming that you do not have any other conditions that could affect your fertility. You must ask your gynecologist this question as it is very important.
7. How will my gynecological problems affect my pregnancy? : If you have a history of endometriosis, fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or any other gynecological disease, it’s definitely worth discussing. Ask your provider how those conditions may affect your ability to conceive — and your ability to carry the pregnancy to term. The same goes for any problems you may have experienced with previous pregnancies and deliveries. If your previous pregnancy was complicated by pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature labor, or anything else, you may need more frequent monitoring or blood work.
8. What should I include in my diet? : It’s a good idea to think about staying healthy as much as possible before getting pregnant. Along those lines, you may be wondering if there are foods and beverages that you should avoid if you are expecting to become pregnant. In general, experts recommend eating a healthy, balanced diet of nutrient-rich foods.
9. Do I need to worry about anaemia? : Iron deficiency anaemia develops when you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. According to the American Society of Haematology, it is very common for pregnant women to develop mild anaemia due to the increase in blood volume that comes with pregnancy. Your provider can advise you what to do.
10. How will my other health conditions change during pregnancy? : If you have any health conditions or take regular medications, discuss with your OB-GYN how pregnancy may affect your symptoms or treatment. That includes both physical and mental health issues. For example, if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, depression or anxiety—your healthcare provider can provide guidance about what to expect. It is really important to discuss all medicines you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter remedies, vitamins, and supplements, with your provider to see how they affect your ability to conceive or become pregnant.
Oneworldnews talked to Doctor Meenakshi Ahuja who is Director of OBG, Fortis La Femme. She is also an Academic Sec. of Delhi Gynae Forum and President of the Indian menopause society. She told Oneworldnews that When you are planning a pregnancy, and you visit your doctor , plan the visit with your partner .
You must share your personal history regarding your periods, any abortions, addictions, medications you may be on, medical & surgical history and any family history . Be honest , candid so that your gynaecologist can help you.
Confirm from your doctor the following:
•What are the changes in your lifestyle both of you must make
•Diet
• Activity & exercise
• smoking and alcohol intake
• sleep
• what supplements if any are required while planning
• what tests do both of you need to undergo before planning
• what vaccinations are required
• what are the good days for trying to conceive
•How long can we try naturally before getting anxious that we have not conceived naturally, & seek help or get fertility investigations.
