The aim of preconception counseling is to optimize women’s health and replace negative feelings and thoughts with accurate information. Pre-pregnancy examination and counseling is not only for individuals with a disease, but for all couples planning a pregnancy.
Pre-pregnancy counseling includes ensuring that the expectant mother undergoes a comprehensive gynecological examination to determine whether she has any conditions that may affect her pregnancy, to investigate her genetic and social status, and to minimize all risks to the fetus and newborn.
Couples planning a pregnancy should start folic acid supplementation at least 3 months before the planned date in consultation with their doctor. Expectant mothers should have a smear test and undergo all pre-pregnancy examinations.
In addition, many other screenings should be performed in this counseling, such as questioning about Mediterranean anemia and other genetic diseases, cancer screenings, diabetes examination and psychological examination.