What is preconception counseling? 

Preconception counseling is an opportunity for women to take steps toward a healthier, happier pregnancy. Before you get pregnant, Dr. Davidson works with you to identify risk factors and optimize health problems that may affect pregnancy.

Planning for a successful pregnancy before conception helps you make the healthiest choices for you and your baby. Depending on your needs, Dr. Davidson may also recommend genetic testing for you and your partner.

Who should get preconception counseling? 

Preconception counseling is a smart choice for any woman planning to become pregnant. Many of your baby’s major organs and systems begin to develop in the first eight weeks of pregnancy. Your state of health and nutrition have a major effect on the development of your fetus during this vital time. 

At Signature Perinatal Center, Dr. Davidson works with many women who have been referred to her by their obstetricians or midwives. Your OB/GYN provider may refer you to Dr. Davidson if you have a high-risk pregnancy which includes several factors, such as:

·      Being over age 35

·      History of preterm labor

·      Previous miscarriages or stillbirth

·      Blood clotting disorder

·      Thyroid disease

·      Diabetes or Hypertension

As a maternal-fetal specialist, Dr. Davidson collaborates closely with your obstetrician to ensure the most up to date evidence based standards are being followed for the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

What should I expect from my preconception counseling visit?

During your preconception counseling appointment, Dr. Davidson listens carefully to your questions and concerns about pregnancy. She may ask questions about aspects of your health and lifestyle, such as:

• Previous pregnancies 

• Contraceptive use 

• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) 

• Vaginal infections 

• Surgeries and hospitalizations 

• Allergies and pre-existing health conditions 

• Current medications 

• Family health history 

• Lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise 

• Home and workplace environment 

She may also order lab tests, or genetic screening.  In women with recurrent miscarriages, Dr. Davidson offers in office procedures to evaluate your uterus and assess the inside of the womb to identify any possible causes for pregnancy loss or inability to get pregnant.

Dr. Davidson will then provide and in depth consultative report outlining steps and plans for a healthy pregnancy Depending on your individual care plan, she may recommend:

• Taking a prenatal vitamin 

• Eating a healthy diet 

• Exercising regularly 

• Quitting smoking or drinking 

• Updating immunizations 

• Low dose Aspirin

• Carrier Screening

• Blood thinners

• Intrauterine assessment

She will review your current medications and inform you which may be continued or advise you to stop taking certain medications that may be harmful to you or your baby.