Preconception Check in Point Cook
Planning a baby is a good time to look at your own health first. A preconception check in Point Cook lets you sort out vaccinations, medicines and screening tests before you start trying, while there is still time to act on the results.
According to healthdirect, the best time to see your doctor is about three to six months before you try to conceive. Partners can come too.
What your GP will ask about
- your general health and any ongoing conditions
- past pregnancies, miscarriages or fertility treatment
- your vaccination history
- smoking, vaping, alcohol and other drugs
- family history of genetic conditions such as spina bifida, cleft palate, thalassaemia, fragile X or cystic fibrosis
- past mental health concerns, and how you are feeling now
Tests that may be arranged
Your GP may order blood tests to check immunity and screen for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV and other STIs. If you are due, cervical screening can be done at the same time, and a breast check may be offered. Samples can be collected at our onsite pathology centre.
Reproductive carrier screening checks whether you and your partner carry cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy or fragile X syndrome. Most carriers are healthy and have no family history. Medicare rebates have been available since November 2023 for anyone pregnant or planning a pregnancy, and for their partner.
Vaccinations before pregnancy
Depending on your records, you may be offered:
- measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
- varicella (chickenpox)
- diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough
- hepatitis B
MMR and chickenpox are live vaccines, so they should be given at least 28 days before you fall pregnant. Flu, whooping cough and RSV vaccines are then recommended during pregnancy itself; see vaccinations and pregnancy and our whooping cough vaccine page.
Folic acid, medicines and lifestyle
A folic acid supplement started before conception and continued through early pregnancy lowers the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Your GP will tell you when to start.
Bring a list of every medicine you take. Some, including certain anti-epilepsy medicines, need review before pregnancy, so do not stop anything on your own. Alcohol at any stage of pregnancy can harm a developing baby, and smoking affects fertility in both partners. Quitline (13 7848) offers free support.
Folate-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables and broccoli help alongside the supplement. A dental check before pregnancy is worthwhile too, and your GP may offer a short screen for depression and anxiety.
Preconception checks in Point Cook for ongoing conditions
If you live with diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, endometriosis or PCOS, planning ahead matters even more. Getting the condition well controlled first, and adjusting medicines where needed, gives your pregnancy the best start.
Once you are pregnant
Most healthy couples conceive within 12 months of trying. If it is taking longer, come back and talk it through. When you get a positive test, book in for antenatal care. You can book online or call (03) 7300 7780.
Common questions
Should my partner come as well?
If possible, yes. Their health, vaccinations and carrier screening results matter too, and it is best for the baby if the whole household avoids smoking.
Is the appointment bulk billed?
Standard consultations are bulk billed with a valid Medicare card. Ask about any out-of-pocket cost for a test before the sample is taken.
I have already stopped contraception. Is it too late?
No. A check is still worthwhile, and folic acid can be started straight away.
Should I keep taking my regular medicines?
Yes, until you have spoken with your GP. Many are fine in pregnancy, and others can be switched to a safer option in good time.
Good to know
Before your appointment
If you are a new patient, please arrive at least five minutes before your consultation and bring:
- Photo ID
- A valid Medicare card
Fees and billing
We offer bulk billing to all patients with a valid Medicare card for standard consultations. All procedures are subject to fees.