Preconception refers to planning a pregnancy.
Preconception is a notion that is not part of the dictionary prepared by the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) . The term, however, is usually used in reference to the stage prior to pregnancy .
The concept is linked to the precautions that a couple must take when deciding to plan the conception of a child. In this way, preconception includes studies to determine the woman 's health status with a view to a possible pregnancy.
When a doctor deals with preconception, he or she can detect disorders that will affect the patient if she becomes pregnant and the baby during its development . Similarly, tests performed as part of preconception care can help detect possible birth defects.
Importance of preconception
Within preconception, it is necessary and essential for the woman to take a series of measures not only to become pregnant but so that, when that happens, her body and mind are as prepared as possible. And the gestation period involves many changes, both physically, mentally and emotionally.
Specifically, in this sense, it is recommended that women commit to carrying out preparatory actions such as these:
- End unhealthy habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol or other substances.
- Monitor your weight. In this sense, you should avoid both being overweight and being excessively thin.
- Take care of your gynecological condition and oral health.
- Have the correct levels of folic acid.
- Perform physical exercise.
- Eat a healthy, balanced and complete diet.
In the same way, it is important that during preconception the woman avoids making common mistakes that can make it significantly more difficult for her to remain pregnant:
- You shouldn't stress if it takes a little longer than expected to get pregnant. This is not an exact science and there may be different factors that slow down the achievement of the goal.
- You should avoid using lubricant during sexual relations. And it is considered that this product can “kill” sperm.
- You should not abuse caffeine.
Preconception seeks to avoid risks for the mother and baby.
Risk minimization
It is important to note that the absence of preconception care does not necessarily mean that the mother will have problems during the pregnancy or that the baby will be born with problems. Many women become pregnant without intending to and have a normal pregnancy.
Preconception care, however, helps minimize risks . Planning the pregnancy, on the other hand, allows family life to be adjusted to receive the baby in the best way. From planning the economy to preparing the house and structuring the new family life, it is always positive to plan for pregnancy so that nothing is left to chance.
Preconception care, of course, does not mean interrupting or minimizing the care that the woman and baby should receive during pregnancy or in the stages after delivery.