Pregnancy becomes more complicated when you have a chronic health condition. Learn the importance of preconception planning and regular prenatal care.
Are you ready to have a baby? It's an important question for any woman — but pregnancy decisions may be more complicated if you have a chronic health condition. Work with your health care provider to make the best choices for you and your baby.
Start with a preconception appointment
A preconception appointment can help you make sure your body is prepared for the challenge of pregnancy. Your health care provider will evaluate how well you're managing your condition and explain any special care you may need during pregnancy.
It's also the time to ask questions.
- Will it be tough to conceive? Some chronic conditions — or their treatments — may affect your ability to get pregnant. Conception may be especially challenging for women who have irregular menstrual cycles.
- How will pregnancy affect my condition? Every woman reacts differently to pregnancy. Sometimes signs and symptoms of a chronic condition remain the same or even improve during pregnancy, particularly for autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. However, pregnancy also aggravates some chronic conditions. Make sure you're prepared for the toll pregnancy may take on your physical and emotional health.
- What are the risks? Some chronic conditions pose potentially serious risks for you or your baby. Uncontrolled asthma may decrease your baby's oxygen supply. High blood pressure may cause problems with the placenta or your baby's growth. Diabetes may increase your baby's birth weight. Lupus increases the risk of miscarriage and preterm labor. Sometimes birth defects are a concern.
- How should I prepare for pregnancy? To give your baby the best start, make sure your condition is under control before you conceive. Then focus on healthy lifestyle choices. Lose excess weight. Eat healthfully. Take prenatal vitamins, including folic acid. Exercise regularly. Keep stress under control. Avoid smoking, alcohol and illicit drugs.
- Will my treatment change during pregnancy? Some treatment plans can continue throughout pregnancy. Others may need to be adjusted. Your health care provider will tailor a treatment plan based on your individual needs.
- What about medication? Any medication you take during pregnancy may affect your baby. But sometimes the benefits outweigh the risks. Depending on the circumstances, your health care provider may switch you to a similar drug that's safer during pregnancy or prescribe medication only during certain stages of your pregnancy.
- How can I boost the odds of having a healthy baby? Many women who have chronic conditions deliver healthy babies. Follow your health care provider's recommendations for taking care of yourself and your baby.
- Will I be able to breast-feed my baby? Breast-feeding is encouraged for many women who have chronic conditions, even those who take medication. Before you begin breast-feeding, talk to your health care provider about any adjustments you may need to make to your treatment plan.
Seek regular prenatal care
If you decide to become pregnant, your health care provider will closely monitor you throughout your pregnancy. Consistent visits will help him or her keep an eye on your underlying condition and detect any problems quickly. If you're taking medication, you may need adjustments as your pregnancy progresses.
Your baby's health will be closely monitored as well. Routine ultrasounds may be used to track your baby's growth and development. Depending on the circumstances, your health care provider may recommend other prenatal tests specifically related to your chronic condition.
Focus on a healthy baby
If your chronic condition poses risks for you or your baby, nine months may seem like an impossibly long time to wonder — and worry — about your pregnancy. Share your concerns with your health care provider. Seek support from your partner, loved ones and friends. Find local support groups or online chat rooms for women in similar situations. Take comfort in the thought that you're doing everything you can to promote a healthy pregnancy.
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