About the Preconception Counseling Program
The Preconception Counseling Program at Jefferson is ideal for women with chronic medical conditions or for those who have experienced complications in a previous pregnancy. Our specialists may be able to plan and help you achieve a healthy pregnancy in the future. If you are already pregnant, the Jefferson Maternal-Fetal Health Center can help care for you and your baby during a high-risk pregnancy.
Consider scheduling a preconception appointment if you have:
- A chronic medical problem, such as diabetes or borderline diabetes, high blood pressure, lupus, a seizure disorder, kidney or gastrointestinal problems, heart problems, a blood clotting problem or a history of stroke
- If you take any medication on a regular basis
- If you are overweight or have had gastric bypass surgery, or if you are significantly underweight
- If you have had important or complex surgeries
- If you have had a preterm birth or experienced complications with a previous pregnancy, such as an unusually big or small baby, preeclampsia or a difficult delivery
- If you have had a second trimester or late pregnancy loss
- If there are inherited diseases that run in your family or if you have delivered a child with a genetic problem or congenital abnormality
- If you are concerned about personal behaviors, such as smoking, or exposures in your job or environment that might affect your pregnancy
- If you are an older mother wondering about the possible risks of pregnancy at a later age or about carrying a multiple gestation as a result of infertility treatments
- If you have any concerns that you would like to discuss with an experienced professional