What is the purpose of preconception counseling?
It reviews health, preferences, and circumstances before pregnancy to support informed reproductive choices and address factors that may affect fertility, pregnancy, birth, or infant health.
Study 05 Preconception and Perinatal Health Education with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
What is the purpose of preconception counseling?
It reviews health, preferences, and circumstances before pregnancy to support informed reproductive choices and address factors that may affect fertility, pregnancy, birth, or infant health.
What should someone do before changing a prescribed medicine when planning pregnancy?
Do not stop a prescribed medicine without discussing it with a clinician; untreated illness can also pose risks.
When are live vaccines such as MMR and varicella generally given?
Some live vaccines, such as MMR and varicella, are generally given before pregnancy rather than during it.
What factors influence fertility, and what can age alone tell you?
Fertility depends on multiple factors, including ovulation, reproductive anatomy, sperm health, medical history, and age; age alone cannot determine an individual’s fertility.
When is fertility evaluation generally advised for people trying to conceive?
Evaluation is generally advised after 12 months without pregnancy for those under 35, or after 6 months for those 35 or older.
What circumstances may warrant earlier fertility advice?
Seek advice sooner if over 40, or with irregular or absent periods, known reproductive conditions, suspected sperm-related concerns, or other infertility factors.
How much folic acid does CDC recommend daily, and why start before conception?
CDC recommends 400 micrograms daily for people capable of becoming pregnant. Starting before conception matters because the neural tube develops very early.
What is the alcohol guidance when trying to conceive or during pregnancy?
Avoid alcohol when trying to conceive and during pregnancy; no safe amount or time during pregnancy is known.
Name key approaches to optimizing health and nutrition before and during pregnancy.
Manage chronic conditions with a clinician, aim for a varied diet and regular physical activity, and discuss weight or nutrient concerns without stigma.
How can people reduce risks from environmental exposures?
Reduce contact with harmful chemicals, metals, pesticides, and infectious material at home or work when possible, using appropriate protective measures.
What can childbirth education help families prepare for?
Childbirth education can cover labor, pain-management options, possible changes to a birth plan, newborn care, and feeding.
What is a birth plan, and what is its limitation?
A birth plan helps communicate preferences, but it is not a guarantee; care may need to change for safety.