Your Baby Today

OB/GYN: Roy Pitkin, M.D.

Should I see a doctor before I attempt to conceive? How soon after I've become pregnant should I see the doctor?

By Roy Pitkin, M.D.

It's a very good idea to see a doctor before conceiving. There may be some conditions that can be corrected, improving the chance of a good pregnancy outcome. Some of the things that might be done at a pre-conception visit include:

  • Reviewing your diet to make sure it is optimal
  • Reviewing any drugs or medications (including over the counter preparations) you are taking and perhaps modifying this list
  • Prescribing folic acid (which prevents certain birth defects)
  • Checking your rubella status and immunizing you if you haven't had this disease
  • Providing an opportunity for you to get your questions answered
In general, you should see a doctor as soon as you are sure you are pregnant. Although if you have had a recent pre-conception visit, the doctor may suggest you wait until after you have missed your second period.

Roy Pitkin, M.D.

OB/GYN

Roy Pitkin, M.D., is a professor of obstetrics and gynecology and is the former chair of the ob/gyn department at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He is a frequent advisor to national health agencies on women's health issues and has received numerous international honors for this work.

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The content on these pages is provided as general information only and should not be substituted for the advice of your physician.


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