Preconception health checklist

Overview

A preconception health checklist is a set of steps you can take before getting pregnant to improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby. It covers things like nutrition, managing existing health conditions, and getting vaccinations up to date.

Yes, many people can benefit from preconception health planning, especially if they have a chronic condition, are over 35, or have had pregnancy complications before.

Anyone who is thinking about becoming pregnant, including their partner. It's especially important for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid conditions, or a history of miscarriage or preterm birth.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Irregular periods or no periods
• Chronic health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
• Being underweight or overweight
• Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using recreational drugs
• Taking certain medications that may affect pregnancy

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults (over 35) may have decreased fertility or higher risk for conditions like high blood pressure, so it's especially important to check for these before pregnancy.
• Your doctor may suggest earlier screening for genetic conditions or uterine health.

Causes

Main causes

• Uncontrolled chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders)
• Infections that haven't been treated (e.g., sexually transmitted infections)
• Lifestyle factors like smoking, heavy alcohol use, or poor nutrition
• Genetic conditions that can be passed to the baby

Risk factors

• Age over 35
• Being underweight or overweight
• History of miscarriage, preterm birth, or birth defects
• Family history of genetic disorders
• Exposure to toxins (e.g., lead, pesticides) at work or home

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a health emergency like severe pain or bleeding, call your local emergency number right away.
• If you are taking medication for a chronic condition and want to get pregnant, talk to your doctor before stopping or changing it.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Schedule a preconception check-up at least three months before trying to conceive.
• If you have a chronic condition like diabetes or epilepsy, see your specialist for a pregnancy planning appointment.
• If you have irregular periods or difficulty getting pregnant after six months (or earlier if over 35), see your doctor.

Diagnosis

A preconception health check usually starts with a conversation and a physical exam. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and any medications. They may also order blood tests and other checks.

Tests that may be done

• Blood type and Rh factor check
• Complete blood count (to check for anaemia)
• Rubella (German measles) immunity test
• Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening
• Thyroid function test (if you have symptoms)
• Blood sugar check (if you are at risk for diabetes)
• Genetic carrier screening (if requested or recommended)

What to expect at your appointment

The visit is a chance to ask questions and plan. Your doctor will go over your results and give personalised advice. It's not about judging you — it's about helping you prepare.

Treatment

Preconception care focuses on optimising your health so you and your baby can have the best start. It's not treating a disease but building a healthy foundation. For people with chronic conditions, treatment means getting those conditions under control first.

Self-care at home

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
• Take a daily folic acid supplement as recommended by your doctor (often 400 mcg, but your doctor will advise the right amount for you).
• Reach and maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly — aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
• Stop smoking and avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
• Limit caffeine to no more than 200 mg per day (about one 12-oz coffee).

Medical treatments

If you have a chronic condition, your doctor may adjust your medications to ones that are safer during pregnancy. For example, they may switch your blood pressure medicine or change your diabetes plan. If you have an infection, they will treat it with safe antibiotics. Your doctor will create a plan that matches your individual needs.

When is surgery considered?

If you have a condition that might need surgery (like fibroids or ovarian cysts), your doctor may recommend doing it before pregnancy to avoid complications later.

Living with this condition

Preconception health is about everyday choices: eating well, managing stress, and staying active. It also means working with your doctor to control any long-term health issues.

Lifestyle tips

• Manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga.
• Get enough sleep (7–9 hours per night).
• Avoid harmful substances: no smoking, no alcohol, no recreational drugs.
• Limit contact with chemicals at home or work (like cleaning products or paint fumes).

Diet and exercise

Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats. Include iron-rich foods like beans and leafy greens. Exercise can be walking, swimming, or dancing — something you enjoy. Avoid high-intensity contact sports if there's a risk of injury.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Planning for a baby can bring hope but also anxiety or sadness, especially if you have had losses. It's normal to feel both. Talk to your partner, a friend, or your doctor. If you feel overwhelmed, ask for support.

Prevention

You can't prevent all pregnancy complications, but preconception care helps reduce many risks. Taking steps like getting vaccinations, managing weight, and treating infections can prevent problems like neural tube defects, preterm birth, and low birth weight.

Vaccines

Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines, like MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), varicella (chickenpox), and flu. Your doctor can check your immunity and recommend any needed shots before pregnancy.

Screening programmes

Screening for genetic conditions (like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease) can help you understand your baby's risk. Also get tested for sexually transmitted infections if you are at risk.

Complications

If left untreated

• Higher risk of birth defects (like spina bifida if folic acid is low)
• Preterm labour or low birth weight
• Problems with the baby's growth or development
• Miscarriage or stillbirth
• Complications for you, like diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy

Long-term outlook

Most people who plan for pregnancy and get regular care go on to have healthy babies. Even if you have a chronic condition, with good preparation your chances are very good. The key is to start early and work closely with your healthcare team.

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