Some medical conditions can have a profound impact on the pregnancy such as hypertension and diabetes. It is critical to have a plan for pregnancy. Thyroid medication requirements change during pregnancy, and sometimes medications for rheumatoid arthritis need to be changed as this condition often improves with pregnancy. Blood clotting abnormalities such as Von Willebrand’s disease or MTHFR carriers will need to be treated differently during pregnancy. Discussing these medical conditions and planning ahead will prepare moms for the best possible outcome. 

In addition, moms over 35 can plan the best options for genetic testing before they attempt pregnancy, some genetic disorders can be screened prior to trying for pregnancy and being familiar with the genetic screening options makes the choices of testing during pregnancy easier to discuss when the time comes for testing. 

Many infertility clinics ignore this important aspect of planning. The goal of conceiving often gets in the way of the real goal – being a mom. Having a plan for medical problems, optimizing health and avoiding complications improves the outcome of a healthy mom and a healthy baby. Dr. Coussons can spend time organizing this plan and assist with a consult to a high risk maternal fetal medicine specialist on line, or in person.

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