A preconception health check is a GP appointment that helps you prepare for pregnancy by reviewing your medical history, medicines, vaccinations, nutrition and lifestyle. It can identify health concerns that may benefit from attention before conception and help you understand which supplements, screenings or investigations may be appropriate for your circumstances.
Ideally, arrange an appointment before you start trying to conceive. This gives you time to review existing medical conditions, discuss fertility questions and make any recommended changes with your healthcare professional.
What Is a Preconception Health Check?
A preconception health check is a consultation focused on your health before pregnancy. Rather than ordering every possible test, your GP reviews your individual circumstances and recommends relevant preventive care, screening and health management. This can help you make informed decisions before conception and prepare for the early stages of pregnancy.
Your appointment may include discussion of:
- Your general medical history and existing health conditions.
- Previous pregnancies and any complications.
- Menstrual cycles and fertility concerns.
- Prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements.
- Vaccination history and immunity.
- Family medical history and genetic carrier screening.
- Nutrition, weight and physical activity.
- Smoking, vaping and alcohol use.
- Mental wellbeing and current treatments.
- Sexual health and STI screening, where appropriate.
- Your partner’s health and relevant fertility factors.
Not everyone needs the same investigations. Your GP can explain which checks may be useful based on your history, age, symptoms and pregnancy plans.
When Should You Book a Preconception Health Check?
The ideal time to book a preconception health check is before you begin trying to conceive. Planning ahead allows time to review medicines, check vaccination status, start recommended supplements and address health concerns that could affect pregnancy. If you are already trying to conceive or have recently discovered you are pregnant, you can still arrange a consultation.
Booking ahead can help you:
- Review prescription medicines and supplements safely.
- Check whether vaccinations or immunity testing are needed.
- Begin recommended folic acid supplementation.
- Discuss iodine and other nutritional requirements.
- Review existing medical conditions.
- Consider genetic carrier screening and relevant blood tests.
- Plan any recommended lifestyle changes.
Some changes, such as adjusting certain medicines or receiving specific vaccinations, may need time before conception. Your GP can help prioritise the next steps according to your individual circumstances.
Review Your Medical History
A preconception health check helps identify medical conditions that may need monitoring or treatment adjustments before pregnancy. Your GP may discuss diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, asthma, epilepsy, autoimmune conditions, mental health concerns and reproductive conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Previous pregnancy complications may also influence your care plan.
The purpose is to help you enter pregnancy with existing conditions managed as well as possible. Pregnancy can change how some conditions behave and how certain medicines are used, so a preconception health check can help you and your GP plan ahead.
Tell your GP about:
- Long-term medical conditions and recent test results.
- Previous surgery or hospital admissions.
- Previous pregnancies, miscarriages or complications.
- Menstrual irregularities or diagnosed reproductive conditions.
- Relevant family medical history.
- Any specialist care you currently receive.
Your GP may coordinate care with an obstetrician or another specialist if your medical history indicates that additional support is appropriate.
Review Medicines and Supplements
Reviewing medicines during a preconception health check helps identify products that may need to be changed, replaced or monitored during pregnancy. This includes prescription medicines, pharmacy products, vitamins, herbal preparations and complementary supplements. Some medicines can be continued, while others may require a planned adjustment before you start trying to conceive.
Do not stop prescribed medication or change its dose without medical advice. Suddenly stopping treatment may worsen an existing condition and create additional risks.
Before your appointment, prepare a list of:
- Prescription medicines and their doses.
- Over-the-counter medicines, including occasional pain relief.
- Vitamins and pregnancy supplements.
- Herbal and complementary products.
- Weight-loss or fitness supplements.
Your GP or pharmacist can use your preconception health check to assess the safety of individual products and discuss suitable alternatives where necessary.
Start Folic Acid Before Pregnancy
Folic acid is an important part of a preconception health check because it helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects, including spina bifida. Australian guidance generally recommends that people planning pregnancy take a daily supplement containing at least 400 micrograms, starting before conception and continuing through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Some people need a higher dose based on their medical history or other risk factors.
To prepare for pregnancy:
- Discuss the appropriate folic acid dose with your GP.
- Start supplementation before trying to conceive, ideally around 12 weeks beforehand.
- Continue through the first trimester as advised.
- Check the ingredients of pregnancy multivitamins to avoid unintentionally doubling up on supplements.
People with certain risk factors, including some medical conditions or medicines, may need a different dose. During your preconception health check, your GP can advise what is suitable for you rather than relying on a general recommendation alone.
Ask About Iodine and Other Nutrients
Iodine supports the development of a baby’s brain and nervous system, and an important part of a preconception health check is discussing whether you need an iodine supplement. Australian guidance recommends an iodine supplement for many people planning pregnancy, pregnant or breastfeeding. The commonly recommended supplemental dose is 150 micrograms daily, but iodine may not be appropriate for everyone. People with thyroid conditions should seek individual advice before starting it.
During your consultation, ask whether you need advice about:
- Iodine supplementation.
- Iron, particularly if you have a history of iron deficiency.
- Vitamin D, depending on your circumstances.
- Vitamin B12 if you follow a vegan diet or have risk factors for deficiency.
- Other supplements based on your diet, health and test results.
A balanced diet remains important, but supplements should be selected according to your needs. During your preconception health check, your GP can help you understand which supplements may be appropriate and avoid assuming that taking more vitamins will provide additional benefits, as excessive amounts of some nutrients can be harmful.
Check Your Vaccinations Before Pregnancy
Checking vaccination history before conception helps identify whether you need a vaccine or immunity testing before becoming pregnant. Your GP may review protection against rubella, chickenpox, hepatitis B and other infections according to your history and individual risk factors. This is especially important because certain live vaccines are not recommended during pregnancy.
Your GP may:
- Review your available vaccination records.
- Recommend blood tests to check immunity where appropriate.
- Discuss whether any vaccinations are needed before conception.
- Explain how long you should wait before trying to conceive after a particular vaccine.
For live vaccines such as those used against rubella and chickenpox, Australian guidance advises avoiding pregnancy for 28 days after vaccination. Your healthcare professional can confirm the appropriate timing for the specific vaccine and your circumstances.
Vaccination recommendations can change, so use current Australian guidance rather than relying on an old vaccination record alone.
Review Cervical Screening and Sexual Health
A preconception consultation is an opportunity to check whether your cervical screening is up to date and whether STI testing is appropriate. Cervical screening recommendations depend on your age, previous results and medical history. STI testing may be recommended according to your history, symptoms and potential exposure, even when you feel well.
Your GP may discuss:
- Whether your Cervical Screening Test is due.
- Testing for chlamydia or gonorrhoea, where appropriate.
- HIV, syphilis or hepatitis testing based on your circumstances.
- Previous infections or treatment.
- Any symptoms that require further investigation.
Some sexually transmitted infections can affect reproductive health or pregnancy if left untreated. Discussing sexual health with your GP is a routine part of preventive care, and you can ask about confidentiality if you have concerns.
Consider Genetic Carrier Screening
Genetic carrier screening can help identify whether you or your partner carry genetic variants associated with certain inherited conditions. Screening may be considered before pregnancy because the results can help couples understand reproductive risks and discuss their options. A family history is not always present, so it can be useful to ask your GP about screening even if no inherited condition is known in your family.
Screening may include testing for conditions such as:
- Cystic fibrosis.
- Spinal muscular atrophy.
- Fragile X syndrome.
The appropriate tests depend on the screening offered, your personal and family history, and current Australian recommendations. If results indicate an increased chance of passing on a genetic condition, genetic counselling may help you understand the findings and consider available options.
Ask about possible costs, eligibility and the implications of testing before deciding whether to proceed.
Check Blood Pressure and General Health
A general health review can identify conditions or risk factors that may need attention before pregnancy. Depending on your history, your GP may check blood pressure, assess diabetes risk and consider whether tests for thyroid function, iron levels or other health concerns are appropriate. Not everyone needs the same blood tests, so investigations should be guided by clinical need.
Your appointment may include:
- Blood pressure measurement.
- Review of weight and body mass index where clinically relevant.
- Assessment of diabetes and cardiovascular risk.
- Review of previous blood test results.
- Additional investigations based on symptoms or medical history.
If you want to understand how a broader GP review works, read our guide to what a health assessment is and who should have one.
Optimise Existing Medical Conditions
Managing chronic health conditions before conception can help reduce avoidable risks and establish a care plan for pregnancy. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease and epilepsy may require closer monitoring or changes to treatment. The right approach depends on the condition, how well it is controlled and the medicines you take.
For example:
- Diabetes: Discuss blood glucose management and any recommended changes before conception.
- High blood pressure: Review your medicines, as some may not be suitable during pregnancy.
- Thyroid disease: Ask whether thyroid function and treatment need review before conception.
- Epilepsy: Seek specialist advice about anti-seizure medicines and supplementation; never stop treatment without medical guidance.
- Mental health conditions: Plan how treatment and support can continue safely during pregnancy.
Your GP can coordinate with relevant specialists where necessary. Do not delay seeking advice if you have a condition that may affect pregnancy.
Review Nutrition, Weight and Physical Activity
Nutrition and physical activity are important parts of preparing for pregnancy, and a preconception health check can help you identify practical changes that suit your health. A balanced eating pattern, regular movement and sustainable habits may support general wellbeing before conception. If weight management is relevant, gradual changes are generally more appropriate than crash diets or extreme restrictions.
A balanced eating pattern can include:
- Vegetables and fruit.
- Wholegrains.
- Lean protein and legumes.
- Nuts and seeds.
- Dairy foods or suitable alternatives.
- Healthy fats.
Your nutritional needs may differ if you have diabetes, food intolerances, a restrictive diet or a history of nutrient deficiencies. An Accredited Practising Dietitian may be helpful if you need individual nutrition advice; ask the clinic about available dietitian and nutrition services.
Avoid crash dieting, prolonged fasting or extreme exercise plans while preparing for pregnancy. During your preconception health check, your GP can help you focus on realistic, sustainable habits that support your general health before conception.
Stop Smoking and Vaping, and Avoid Alcohol
Stopping smoking and vaping and avoiding alcohol are important considerations when planning pregnancy. These substances can affect reproductive and pregnancy health, and support is available if changing your habits is difficult. Discuss your circumstances with your GP so you can choose an appropriate approach.
If you smoke or vape, your GP can discuss cessation support and suitable options. If you drink alcohol, Australian guidance recommends avoiding it during pregnancy; avoiding alcohol while trying to conceive can also help reduce the chance of exposure before pregnancy is recognised.
You do not need to manage these changes alone. Ask your GP about confidential support and practical steps that fit your circumstances.
Review Caffeine Intake
Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, chocolate and some medicines. You may not need to eliminate caffeine completely while planning pregnancy, but it is useful to understand how much you consume and how recommendations change once you are pregnant. Your GP can help you review your usual intake and identify practical adjustments if needed.
Consider the size and strength of your drinks, not just the number of cups. Energy drinks and some supplements can contain substantial amounts of caffeine or other ingredients that may not be suitable during pregnancy.
If you are unsure about a product, check its ingredients with your healthcare professional.
Look After Your Mental Health
Mental health is an important part of preconception care because pregnancy planning can bring excitement, uncertainty or anxiety. If you have a history of depression, anxiety, trauma or another mental health condition, discussing this before conception can help you plan appropriate support. Your GP can also review current treatments and medicines with you.
You may wish to discuss:
- Your current mood and wellbeing.
- Previous mental health difficulties.
- Medicines and psychological treatments.
- Previous pregnancy loss or difficult experiences.
- Support networks and stressors.
- Concerns about pregnancy, birth or parenting.
Do not stop mental health medication without medical advice. The aim is to make a considered plan that supports your wellbeing while taking pregnancy into account.
What About Your Partner’s Health?
Preconception planning can involve both partners because general health, lifestyle and some medical factors may affect fertility. A partner may wish to discuss medicines, smoking, alcohol, chronic conditions, previous cancer treatment or other concerns with their GP. Family history may also be relevant when considering genetic carrier screening.
Factors worth discussing can include:
- Smoking and alcohol use.
- Medicines and supplements.
- Existing medical conditions.
- Previous reproductive or fertility concerns.
- Family history of inherited conditions.
- Lifestyle factors that may affect sperm health.
If either partner has known fertility concerns, an earlier assessment may be appropriate. Your GP can help determine whether further testing or specialist advice is needed.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of Getting Pregnant?
Understanding the menstrual cycle can help you identify when pregnancy is most likely, although timing alone cannot guarantee conception. The fertile window occurs around ovulation, and regular intercourse throughout the cycle is sufficient for many couples. Age, menstrual patterns, reproductive conditions and partner factors can also influence fertility.
You may find it helpful to:
- Keep track of your menstrual cycle if it is useful to you.
- Learn about ovulation and the fertile window.
- Review medicines and health conditions before conception.
- Discuss any irregular or absent periods with your GP.
- Seek advice if you have concerns about fertility.
You do not need to use complex tracking methods unless they help you. If pregnancy is taking longer than expected, your GP can review relevant factors and discuss whether fertility investigations are appropriate.
When Should You Ask for Fertility Help?
A preconception health check can help identify factors that may affect fertility and determine when further assessment is appropriate. Seek medical advice if you have irregular or absent periods, a known reproductive condition, a history of pelvic infection or surgery, recurrent pregnancy loss or concerns about sperm health. Age and how long you have been trying to conceive also influence when assessment may be appropriate.
Consider asking for advice earlier if you:
- Have a condition known to affect fertility.
- Have had treatment that may affect reproductive health.
- Have significant menstrual irregularities.
- Have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss.
- Have concerns related to age or previous reproductive history.
- Know or suspect that your partner may have a fertility issue.
You do not have to wait until you have been trying for a long time if you already have a reason to be concerned. During your preconception health check, your GP can discuss your individual circumstances and advise whether initial investigations or a specialist referral may be appropriate.
What Should You Bring to Your Pregnancy Consultation?
Preparing a few details before your appointment can help your GP understand your health history and focus on the most relevant issues. You do not need to gather every record before attending, but bringing available information can make the consultation more useful. Your GP can help identify anything else that may be needed.
Consider bringing:
- A list of current medicines and supplements, including doses.
- Your vaccination history, if available.
- Information about previous pregnancies and complications.
- Relevant specialist letters or recent test results.
- Family medical history.
- Details of your menstrual cycle, if known.
- Questions about fertility, nutrition or genetic screening.
Write down any concerns you would like to discuss. This can help you make the most of your appointment, particularly if several health issues need to be reviewed.
Planning for Pregnancy? The Peninsula MDC Can Help
A preconception health check can help you understand what to address before trying to conceive and which preventive steps may be appropriate for your circumstances. At The Peninsula Medical & Dental Clinic in Mornington, you can contact the GP team to enquire about a consultation to discuss your medical history, medicines, vaccinations, lifestyle and pregnancy plans.
Your GP can review existing health conditions, discuss relevant screening and supplements, and determine whether additional investigations or specialist input may be needed. The clinic also provides women’s health care, with appointments tailored to individual health needs.
If you are preparing for pregnancy or have questions about fertility, contact the clinic to discuss your needs and confirm current appointment availability.
Contact The Peninsula Medical & Dental Clinic: Visit the GP services page or contact the clinic to enquire about an appointment.
FAQs
What should a preconception health check include?
A preconception health check may include a review of your medical history, medicines, supplements, vaccinations, existing health conditions and lifestyle. Depending on your circumstances, your GP may also discuss blood tests, cervical screening, STI testing, genetic carrier screening and fertility concerns.
How long before trying to conceive should I see my GP?
Ideally, arrange a consultation before you begin trying to conceive. This gives you time to review medicines, check vaccinations, begin recommended supplements and address any health concerns that may need attention before pregnancy.
When should I start taking folic acid?
Australian guidance generally recommends taking at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before conception and throughout the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Starting around 12 weeks before trying to conceive is a useful target, although some people need a different dose based on their medical history. Ask your GP what is appropriate for you.
Do I need blood tests before pregnancy?
Not everyone needs the same blood tests. Your GP may recommend investigations based on your medical history, vaccination status, symptoms, family history and individual risk factors.
Should my partner attend the preconception appointment?
Your partner is welcome to be involved if that is helpful to you both. Their medical history, medicines, lifestyle and family history may be relevant to fertility and genetic carrier screening, so discussing these factors together can help with planning.
Can my GP help if I am having trouble getting pregnant?
Yes. Your GP can review your menstrual history, medical conditions and relevant fertility factors, and arrange initial investigations or specialist referral when appropriate. Seek advice earlier if you have irregular periods, a known reproductive condition or other reasons to be concerned.
Do I need genetic carrier screening if there is no family history?
It can still be worth discussing. Some inherited conditions can occur without a known family history, and screening may help you understand whether you or your partner carry certain genetic variants. Your GP can explain available tests, limitations, costs and whether genetic counselling may be useful.
Can I continue taking my usual medicines while trying to conceive?
Some medicines can be continued, while others may need to be changed or monitored before pregnancy. Do not stop or alter prescribed treatment on your own; ask your GP or pharmacist to review your medicines and supplements before making changes.
References
- Pregnancy Birth and Baby – Planning for Pregnancy
- Healthdirect Australia – Planning for Your Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Birth and Baby – Vitamins and Supplements During Pregnancy
- RACGP – Preconception Care
- Healthdirect Australia – Medicines During Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Birth and Baby – Preconception Health for Males