How far in advance should I schedule a preconception visit?

We recommend scheduling your visit three to six months before you plan to start trying to conceive. This allows enough time to make lifestyle adjustments, update vaccinations, or manage any underlying health conditions.

Why is folic acid so important before pregnancy?

Folic acid is essential for the development of the baby’s brain and spine. These organs form in the very first weeks of pregnancy, often before you even know you are pregnant. Having a sufficient level of folic acid in your system before conception is the best protection.

Will I need a pelvic exam at this visit?

Depending on when you had your last annual exam, we may perform a pelvic exam and a Pap test to ensure your reproductive health is in optimal condition before you become pregnant.

Can preconception planning help if I am struggling to conceive?

Yes. This visit allows us to identify potential fertility issues early and discuss the next steps for evaluation if needed. Proactive planning can often save time and reduce stress during the conception process.

Are preconception visits covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover preconception counseling as part of preventive or wellness care. We recommend checking with your specific provider to confirm your benefits.

Preconception Planning

Preparing Your Body for Pregnancy

A preconception visit gives you the opportunity to identify and reduce risks to yourself and your baby before you conceive. During this appointment, we focus on your total wellness and any factors that may influence your ability to have a healthy pregnancy.

Your preconception care typically includes:

Medical and Family History: We review any current medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and discuss your family history to identify any genetic factors that could impact your future pregnancy.
Cycle and Fertility Discussion: We talk about your menstrual cycles and reproductive history to identify your best windows for conception and flag any potential irregularities early.
Medication Review: We evaluate all current prescriptions, supplements, and over-the-counter products to ensure they are safe for a developing baby and make adjustments where necessary.
Lifestyle Evaluation: We provide a safe space to discuss habits such as diet, exercise, and any environmental exposures at work or home that could affect your health or fertility.
Preventative Screenings: Your visit often includes bloodwork, updated vaccinations, and a mental health screening to ensure you are starting your journey with a strong foundation of support.

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Who Is This For?

Women or couples planning to start a family in the next year.
Anyone with a chronic health condition who wants to ensure a safe pregnancy.
Women with a history of irregular periods or previous pregnancy complications.
Patients who want to optimize their nutrition and lifestyle before conceiving.
Anyone seeking a proactive and informative start to their path toward motherhood.

A Full Range of Care, From Conception to Postpartum

Whatever your pregnancy looks like, we have the experience and the resources to support it. Click any service below to learn more.

High-risk pregnancy management
Pregnancy with multiples (twins and more)
Management of pre-term labor
Ectopic pregnancy care
Pregnancy nutrition
Coping with physical and emotional changes
The Fresh Test (gestational diabetes screening)
Postnatal visits

Building a Foundation Through Diet and Vitamins

Nutrition plays a critical role in fetal development long before you see a positive pregnancy test. One of the most important steps in preconception planning is ensuring your body has the specific nutrients needed for the earliest stages of a baby’s growth.

Key focuses for your nutritional health include:

Prenatal Vitamins: Starting a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid before conception significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects.
Managing a Healthy Weight: Reaching a healthy weight before pregnancy lowers the risk of complications like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
Balanced Nutrition: Focusing on iron-rich foods, calcium, and lean proteins to build the stores your body will need to support a growing life.
Hydration and Habit Changes: We discuss the importance of eliminating alcohol and reducing caffeine as you begin trying to conceive.

Start Your Planning Visit