The Overlooked Foundation of Parenthood: Pre-Conception Health
Fertility specialists frequently encounter couples who embark on their journey to parenthood filled with optimism but lacking adequate preparation. A widespread misconception persists that pregnancy commences only after a positive test result. However, the reality is that it begins months before conception, rooted in the overall health of both partners. Pre-conception health is not merely a luxury; it is an essential responsibility that lays the groundwork for a successful pregnancy.
Underlying Issues and Delayed Interventions
Infertility does not develop overnight. In numerous instances, it is connected to underlying medical conditions that could have been identified and managed earlier. These include thyroid disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, anaemia, vitamin deficiencies, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and declining sperm quality. Unfortunately, many couples seek professional assistance only after months or years of unsuccessful attempts, by which time emotional stress has often already taken hold.
Lifestyle and Medical Factors Impacting Fertility
What many individuals fail to realize is that egg and sperm quality are directly influenced by lifestyle choices and medical health. Key factors affecting fertility in both men and women encompass:
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Inadequate sleep and high stress levels
- A sedentary lifestyle with minimal physical activity
Male infertility remains a largely unaddressed issue in India, despite being equally responsible for conception difficulties. Becoming parents is a joint responsibility, both physically and emotionally, requiring mutual awareness and effort.
The Role of Age and Conscious Decision-Making
Age is a critical factor that significantly impacts conception. Fertility declines gradually but steadily, particularly in women after the age of 35. While delaying pregnancy for personal or professional reasons is completely understandable, it should be a conscious decision supported by awareness and, where necessary, fertility assessments. Understanding one's reproductive health status empowers couples to plan more effectively for their future.
Benefits of Pre-Conception Counselling
Pre-conception counselling enables doctors to screen for various health issues, including infections, genetic risks, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic disorders. It ensures that vaccinations are up to date and provides an opportunity to recommend folic acid supplementation and nutritional corrections before conception, not after. These seemingly minor steps can substantially reduce the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and pregnancy complications.
Planning for Reproductive Health
Preparing for pregnancy is as crucial as planning for any major life milestone. Couples often meticulously plan their careers, homes, and weddings, yet rarely approach their reproductive health with the same level of seriousness. Healthy pregnancies are not accidental; they are the result of careful preparation. Seeking guidance before attempting to conceive does not indicate that something is wrong. Instead, it signifies a choice of awareness over uncertainty.
When couples invest in their health prior to conception, they enhance not only their chances of achieving pregnancy but also the long-term health of their future child. Parenthood truly begins long before birth, raising the vital question: are we adequately preparing for it?
Dr Manika Khanna, CEO and Founder at Gaudium IVF
