مشاوره بارداری چیست و چرا اهمیت دارد؟ تصمیم برای مادر شدن، فقط یک انتخاب شخصی نیست، بلکه دورانی پر از تغییرات جسمی، روحی و حتی سبک زندگی محسوب می‌شود. بسیاری از زنان تصور می‌کنند که بارداری فقط با انجام یک آزمایش و دیدن دو خط روی بیبی‌ چک آغاز می‌شود، اما حقیقت این است که یک بارداری سالم، قبل از شکل‌گیری نطفه شروع می‌شود. In order for the physical condition of the person's body to be ready for pregnancy and fetal growth, there is a need for pregnancy counseling with an experienced gynecologist to determine as soon as possible if there is a need to take supplements or if you need to do something special before trying to get pregnant.

Why is pregnancy counseling important?

This consultation includes reviewing medical history, identifying risk factors and existing health problems, and providing necessary recommendations for proper nutrition, exercise, health care, and stress management. By conducting pregnancy counseling, the doctor will give the mother and father essential information about disease prevention, necessary tests, and possible risks during pregnancy, and will design a personal plan for each pregnant woman to maintain the health of the mother and fetus during pregnancy. In fact, this consultation is a good opportunity to answer parents' questions and concerns.

What tests are performed in pregnancy consultation?

In pregnancy counseling, a number of tests are performed to check the health of the mother and the fetus in order to prevent possible problems and risks. These tests include the following.

• Initial blood test to check hemoglobin level and test for infections such as hepatitis B, HIV and syphilis.
• Urine test to evaluate kidney function and check for signs of infection or excess protein, which is a sign of pregnancy problems such as preeclampsia.
• Blood sugar test to check the possibility of gestational diabetes.
• Genetic tests to identify the risks of genetic diseases such as Down syndrome.
• Blood group and Rh detection test to check compatibility of blood group of mother and fetus.
• Thyroid test to evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland and prevent hormonal problems that affect pregnancy.

Sometimes a person has done some of these tests a while before the counseling session and there is no need for them to do it again, but some others may have certain diseases and need to do more tests to control them.

When is the best time for pre-pregnancy consultation?

The best time for pre-pregnancy counseling is at least 3 to 6 months before the procedure. This time allows parents to fully prepare their bodies for this period. During this period, the best gynecologist examines the person's medical history, performs necessary tests, and provides recommendations on lifestyle changes such as proper nutrition, folic acid supplements, and weight control. Also, this time is suitable for examining and treating existing medical problems such as diabetes, heart diseases or infections.

What problems are checked in pregnancy counseling?

In pregnancy counseling, various problems are examined to ensure the health of mother and fetus during pregnancy. Some of these problems are:

• Examination of the mother's previous or current diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, thyroid disorders, or hormonal problems.
• Identifying the risk of contracting infectious diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis B, syphilis or genetic diseases such as Down syndrome.
• Examining the nutritional status, weight and physical condition of the mother to evaluate the possibility of problems such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and digestive problems.
• To identify problems such as anemia, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, or urinary tract infections.
• Evaluation of stress, anxiety and psychological concerns that affect pregnancy.
• Examination of previous pregnancies and any problems or complications that occur in the new pregnancy, such as miscarriage or premature birth.

Does pregnancy counseling help to increase the chance of pregnancy?

Pregnancy counseling significantly increases the chances of pregnancy. In this consultation, the doctor examines the general health status of the mother and various factors that affect pregnancy, and gives recommendations to improve the physical condition and prepare the body for pregnancy.

This includes recommending folic acid supplements, weight control, improving nutrition, regular exercise, and quitting unhealthy habits such as smoking or alcohol. In addition, counseling identifies medical or hormonal problems that prevent pregnancy. Therefore, pre-pregnancy counseling increases the chances of a successful pregnancy by reducing health risks and regulating the physical condition of the mother.

How is pregnancy counseling done for women with underlying diseases?

Pregnancy counseling for women with underlying diseases is done specifically and more carefully than general counseling, because these diseases affect pregnancy and require special monitoring and care. The doctor first reviews a complete medical history to identify underlying diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease, autoimmune disease, or hormonal disorders. Then, the doctor suggests the necessary treatments to control the condition of the disease before pregnancy. For example, certain medications that affect pregnancy may be discontinued or replaced.

Conclusion

Finally, we must say that pregnancy counseling for women is an essential step to ensure a healthy and risk-free pregnancy. Considering that some conditions have significant effects on the health of the mother and the fetus, their correct management before pregnancy and during pregnancy is of particular importance. If you are planning to have a baby, you can contact Dr. Fatemeh Alizadeh for pregnancy counseling, she has high skills and expertise in this work.