Preconception Counseling
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Maternal & Fetal Medicine Center of Southern California, Inc.
Khalil Tabsh, MD
Obstetrician & Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist located in Santa Monica, CA
If you’re interested in becoming pregnant in the coming months but are concerned about a family history of abnormalities or recurrent pregnancy loss, preconception counseling is essential. At Maternal & Fetal Medicine Center of Southern California, Inc. in Santa Monica, California, Khalil Tabsh, MD, can help you understand how to prepare for pregnancy and give you a better idea of what your care will look like. He can also give you an honest assessment of the complications that you may face during your pregnancy. Call the office today to get started with preconception counseling.
Preconception Counseling Q & A
Why should I seek preconception counseling?
During preconception counseling, Dr. Tabsh reviews your medical history, your partner’s medical history, your family history, and your lifestyle to determine any potential issues you might have with conception, pregnancy, and delivery. This information can also help him assess risks and potential outcomes if you do become pregnant.
While at your preconception counseling session, you can ask questions about everything and anything related to prenatal and postnatal health. You may also inquire about issues that may arise during pregnancy and the health of your unborn baby.
What information should I share during preconception counseling?
Dr. Tabsh wants a preconception counseling appointment to be beneficial to you and help you make important decisions about pregnancy. Be prepared to discuss issues such as your:
- Reproductive history and prior pregnancies
- Sexual history
- Current medications
- Medical and surgical history
- Family health history
- Home and work environment, including toxin exposure
- Lifestyle factors, such as substance use
Dr. Tabsh will explain any potential tests you can choose to help ease your mind as you move through your pregnancy. He reviews their benefits and minor risks, too.
What tests are included as part of preconception counseling?
Initial testing prior to pregnancy may include blood tests to look for hepatitis, HIV, syphilis, and rubella. You’ll also undergo a pelvic exam to check your reproductive organs.
If you’ve experienced recurrent pregnancy loss, defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses, Dr. Tabsh advises you on your options. He’ll do a thorough examination to determine if there’s an issue with your pelvic organs or immune system, that’s causing your frequent miscarriages. Sometimes the recurrent loss is due to a chromosomal or other abnormality or advanced maternal age.
Depending on your age and family history, genetic counseling might be advisable. This can give you an idea of your risk of having a child with a congenital disability.
Preconception counseling can help you understand your chances of conceiving and carrying a healthy pregnancy to term, as well as any possible risks to yourself or your baby. Call Maternal & Fetal Medicine Center of Southern California, Inc. to get started with preconception counseling today.
