What this consultation is for
It identifies before pregnancy what can be improved, anticipates risks and answers your questions about conception.
Preconception consultation · Marrakech
Preconception consultation in Marrakech
A pregnancy can be prepared, especially if you have a chronic condition, a treatment or a relevant history. The preconception consultation takes stock before conception so that pregnancy starts in the best conditions. In Marrakech, Dr Oussama Rachid, an obstetrician-gynaecologist, sees you in English, French or Arabic. This page is informational: it does not replace a consultation.
Your history and health
Medical and obstetric history, chronic conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid…), current treatments, vaccinations: the aim is to adjust what needs adjusting before starting a pregnancy.
Lifestyle
Weight, diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol: personalised advice can improve the conditions of pregnancy. A supplement, for example folic acid, is offered when indicated.
Your cycle and fertility
Understanding your cycle and fertile window helps conception. If pregnancy takes time, an assessment can be offered (see the fertility page).
Chronic conditions to stabilise before pregnancy
Some conditions influence pregnancy, and pregnancy can change them: diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, epilepsy, asthma, kidney or heart disease, autoimmune conditions. Ideally they are well controlled before conception.
The doctor reviews the situation, adjusts treatments if needed with your agreement and, where necessary, coordinates with the doctor who follows you for that condition. Never change or stop a treatment on your own.
Vaccines and infections
A review of your vaccinations is part of the consultation: rubella, chickenpox, hepatitis B, influenza and others depending on your situation and current recommendations. Some vaccines cannot be given during pregnancy and require a delay before trying to conceive.
We can also check whether you are protected against certain infections (rubella, toxoplasmosis) and offer screening for sexually transmitted infections when useful.
Folic acid, iron and vitamin D
Folic acid supplementation is generally advised before conception and during the first weeks of pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. The dose is higher in some situations (certain conditions, certain treatments, a previous affected child).
Depending on your tests, other supplements (iron, vitamin D) may be offered. They are taken on medical advice, at the dose suited to you.
Diet, weight and physical activity
A very low or very high weight can disturb ovulation and increase certain risks in pregnancy. Without a strict diet, a varied diet, regular physical activity and enough sleep prepare the body.
Tobacco, alcohol and drugs should be stopped before conception, and caffeine limited. If stopping is hard, the doctor helps you find support without judgement.
After 35 or with a history
With age, fertility falls gradually and some pregnancy risks increase. A history of repeated miscarriage, complicated pregnancy, prematurity or a genetic condition in the family justifies an earlier consultation.
The aim is not to worry you but to give you the right information and follow-up from the start.
What about the future father?
Preparation also concerns the partner: tobacco, alcohol, some medicines and excessive heat can affect male fertility. If conception is difficult, a couple's assessment is useful, and the future father is welcome at the consultation if he wishes.
After the consultation
A plan is agreed with you: any tests, adjustments to treatments, and follow-up from early pregnancy.
Procedures and examinations
The procedures and examinations linked to this care. Each is offered after a consultation, according to your situation.
Preconception consultation
Taking stock before starting a pregnancy.
- Planning a pregnancy
- Chronic condition or treatment
- Lifestyle advice and supplements
Frequently asked questions
When should I have a preconception consultation?
Ideally before stopping contraception, a few months before you want to become pregnant.
Is it useful if I am healthy?
Yes, it checks the basics and answers your questions even if there is no particular problem.
Should I stop my treatments?
No, do not change any treatment without medical advice. The consultation lets us adjust it if needed.
What if pregnancy takes time?
Discuss it at the consultation: an assessment can be offered, often after a year of trying, or sooner depending on age and situation.
How long before conception should I consult?
Ideally a few months before: this leaves time to stabilise a condition, have a vaccine or adjust a treatment. It is never too late to consult.
Is folic acid compulsory?
It is generally advised, before conception and in early pregnancy. The doctor specifies the dose suited to your situation.
Which vaccines should I have had before pregnancy?
It depends on your record and current recommendations. Bring your vaccination record: the doctor tells you what is useful and within what timeframe.
Can I stop contraception right after the consultation?
The right time depends on the method and your tests. The doctor tells you during the consultation.
Also of interest
Informational content: it does not replace a consultation. No outcome can be guaranteed.