Pre-conception counseling involves meeting with a doctor prior to becoming pregnant. If a woman or couple are planning to have a child, we suggest initiating this sort of counseling approximately three to six months prior to attempting conception. This allows enough time for mental and physical preparation and to identify and treat any underlying problems.
Laboratory tests such as blood work and urinalysis may identify other problems, such as anemia or a kidney infection, of which the woman may have been unaware. Other tests may include pelvic examination, screenings for sexually transmitted infections, mental health assessment and a pelvic ultrasound.