One of the best actions you can take toward a healthy pregnancy is preconception planning. It is best to start preparing for a healthy pregnancy up to a year before conception. A visit with your women’s healthcare provider prior to attempting pregnancy will help you to make choices that will improve your health and the health of your future child.

A preconception heath visit includes an evaluation of your overall health and identification of any health or lifestyle risk factors that may affect your fertility and/or future pregnancy. Your midwife or doctor will assist you in being as healthy as possible before and during your pregnancy. A typical preconception planning visit includes the following: