One important way you can plan for a healthy pregnancy is by scheduling a pre-pregnancy visit with your health care provider. Leading medical experts agree that the pre-pregnancy visit may be the single most important health care visit a woman can make to have a healthy baby!

A pre-pregnancy visit is a meeting between you and your partner and either a family practice doctor, an obstetrician/gynecologist, a nurse practitioner or a midwife.

The pre-pregnancy visit gives your health care provider an opportunity to assess your health and that of your partner and to gather information about any medical conditions that could affect your pregnancy. 





Make The Most Of Your Pre-Pregnancy Visit:

• When you call, don't be surprised if the person doesn't understand what you mean by a pre-pregnancy visit. Be clear and direct. Explain that you and your partner want to sit down with your provider to discuss how you can work together to prepare for a healthy pregnancy.
  
  
• Come prepared. Before you visit, write down any questions or concerns you or your partner may have and bring them along. Take along your family health histories, and records. Don't forget a pencil and paper to take notes.
  
  
• Be prepared to ask about and discuss any medications or herbal remedies you currently take, any history of depression, any previous or current sexually transmitted infections, your immunization status and any potential hazards in your workplace.
  
  
• During the visit, don't be afraid to ask questions. Write down the answers. If you are confused, ask again. The more information you obtain now, the better prepared you and your partner will be.