Medically Reviewed By Experts Panel
If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, obesity, depression, eating disorders, or asthma, it’s crucial to manage it before getting pregnant.
Proper management ensures your health is stable, reduces potential risks to your baby, and increases the chances of a smooth pregnancy. Work closely with your gynecologist to develop a tailored plan, including medications, lifestyle adjustments, and monitoring, to support a healthy pregnancy journey.
What chronic health conditions should women be mindful of before conception?
Before conception, chronic health complications that may require careful management include:
- Diabetes – High blood sugar levels can affect fertility and increase risks during pregnancy.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – Can lead to complications like preeclampsia or preterm birth.
- Thyroid Disorders – Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can impact fertility and fetal development.
- Obesity – Linked to fertility challenges and increased risk of gestational diabetes or hypertension.
- Asthma – Poorly controlled asthma can reduce oxygen flow to the baby.
- Depression and Anxiety – Mental health conditions may affect self-care and pregnancy outcomes.
- Eating Disorders – Can impact nutritional health and hormonal balance.
- Autoimmune Diseases – Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may pose risks for the mother and baby.
Proper management of these conditions can support a healthier pregnancy and reduce complications.
Doctor’s Voice
What chronic health conditions should men be mindful of before conception?
Men should keep an eye on some of these chronic health conditions before trying to conceive like
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Heart disease
- Sleep apnea.
These issues can affect sperm quality and fertility, which could impact both the chances of getting pregnant and the baby’s health. Managing these conditions is really important.
What are the most common chronic conditions among women of reproductive age in India?
In India, the most common chronic conditions among women of reproductive age include –
- Anemia
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Hypertension.
These conditions can significantly impact fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and overall health. Managing them before conception is essential to ensure a healthier pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications for both mother and baby.
Doctor’s Voice
Can PCOS, a common condition among young Indian women, interfere with conception?
Yes, PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, can interfere with conception. It often causes irregular ovulation or prevents ovulation altogether, making it harder to get pregnant. However, with proper treatment, such as medication to regulate ovulation, many women with PCOS can conceive. It is estimated that one in five Indian women suffers from PCOS.
PCOS: It is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It occurs when the ovaries produce an excess of androgens (male hormones), leading to irregular menstrual cycles, ovulation problems, and cysts in the ovaries. Symptoms can include weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, and difficulty getting pregnant. PCOS can also increase the risk of other health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
Is it possible to manage chronic conditions with lifestyle modifications?
Yes, many chronic conditions can be managed with lifestyle changes. Things like eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep can help control issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. In some cases, these changes can even reduce the need for medication or make it work better. But it’s always a good idea to work with your healthcare provider to create a plan that’s right for you.
Why is it important to get chronic conditions under control before pregnancy?
It’s really important to get chronic conditions under control before pregnancy to reduce risks for both you and your baby. Managing issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid problems can help prevent complications like preterm birth or preeclampsia, leading to a healthier pregnancy and better outcomes for both of you. For example, if a woman with high blood pressure gets it under control before pregnancy, she can reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia, a condition that can be dangerous for both her and the baby.
Can you get pregnant with chronic illness?
Pregnancy with a chronic illness is possible but may require careful management. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders can impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Chronic diseases may suppress ovulation and sperm production, making conception challenging. Collaborating with your gynecologist or family physician to manage the condition before and during pregnancy can improve the chances of a healthier outcome.
My Experience
Priya Mansukhani, software engineer, Hyderabad
I’m 28 and have PCOS, which made it difficult to conceive due to my irregular periods. After a year of trying, I consulted a fertility specialist. With prescribed medications and lifestyle changes, my cycles regulated, and I conceived within a year.
ReadyToBeMom?… remember Proper management of chronic conditions ensures your health is stable, reduces potential risks to your baby, and increases the chances of a smooth & healthy pregnancy
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