Preconception Counselling

Deciding to start a family of your own can be both exciting and daunting; however, with the proper guidance and care, you can learn to navigate conception, pregnancy, birth and antenatal care with ease.

Scheduling your appointment

Dr Taheera Hassim provides extensive preconception counselling services for women who are ready to conceive or are planning on conceiving in future. This way, you can actively ensure you take the necessary steps to promote a healthy and happy pregnancy for you and your budding family.

Dr Hassim recommends scheduling your preconception counselling appointment at least three months before trying to conceive with your partner.

What to bring with you

Preconception counselling is a discussion between you and Dr Hassim about your health, medical history, goals and lifestyle before conceiving. Therefore, she advises that you bring all the necessary information in order for her to provide you with the most effective guidance on your exciting journey.

Ensure you know your family and medical histories, including any genetic conditions that may be passed onto your child. You will also need to discuss your gynaecological history and the vaccinations you have had.

During the appointment

Dr Hassim will welcome you to her office and have an in-depth discussion with you and your partner before moving on to the second part of the counselling appointment. You'll also receive a brief physical examination to help Dr Hassim understand your current health. She will assess things like your blood pressure, heart rate and weight.

In addition, she may run several lab tests to screen for underlying conditions and diseases that may impact you or your baby during pregnancy. This will allow her to make the correct recommendations for your pregnancy journey.