Preconception care is a chance for you and your partner to improve your health before you start trying for a baby. A healthcare professional can help you to assess your health, fitness, and lifestyle, and to identify areas that you may want to improve.

Preconception care may be useful if:

• You want to find out how a condition such as diabetes or epilepsy can affect pregnancy.
• You’re having trouble conceiving.
• There is a risk that you could pass on a genetic condition, such as sickle cell disease or thalassaemia to your baby.
• You know that your lifestyle could be better and you want to make positive changes.

If you need advice about preconception care before trying for a baby, your GP can give you more information.

Preconception care is provided by practice nurses, health visitors, family planning clinics and Well Woman clinics, to find out what is available to you speak to your GP.

If you're trying to conceive, it's ideal to start taking Folic acid (400 micrograms) daily during this period. Once pregnant, continue taking it until at least 12 weeks (or as advised by your doctor). Folic acid is key in preventing neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.

Yor can find more information at the following links:

Getting pregnant – Maternity Matters Dorset  

Ready for pregnancy: Healthier Together (what0-18.nhs.uk)