Women considering pregnancy are advised to take several steps to improve their chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy, according to Dr. Claire Sejour of the St. Joseph’s/Candler Physician Network OB/GYN.
Dr. Sejour recommends starting with preconception counseling. “Preconception counseling is a good option for all women and should be offered to patients before they even try to conceive,” Dr. Sejour says. “Even if it’s during your annual visit, start talking to your provider about your family planning goals and optimizing your health.”
Key recommendations include managing chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, ensuring medications are taken as prescribed, staying up to date on vaccinations, exercising moderately, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake, eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and taking folic acid at least one to three months before trying to conceive.
Dr. Sejour notes that infertility is relatively common. “Infertility is fairly common, especially unexplained infertility,” she says. “I also think woman are more open to share their journey of infertility so we are hearing about it more than before.” She explains that infertility is defined as the inability to conceive within a specific timeframe: 12 months for women 34 years old and younger, and six months for women 35 and older.
“Another thing women can do is if they are not having regular cycles, they should discuss it with their doctor,” Dr. Sejour says. “If you are having regular cycles, knowing your fertile window (approximately six days each month you are most likely to get pregnant) and having intercourse as much as you can during that window improves your chances.”
Dr. Sejour encourages open communication with OB/GYN providers throughout the conception process. If difficulties persist in getting pregnant, healthcare providers can order lab work or imaging tests or refer patients to an infertility specialist if necessary.
“In terms of infertility and a healthy pregnancy in general, especially myself having just gone through a pregnancy, make sure you find your sense of community and support,” Dr. Sejour says. “There are a lot of online groups and forums or talk to your provider for help finding the right support.”
“You would be surprised that a lot of women go through infertility, and it’s nice to know you are not alone and finding that support can be very helpful.”
For those seeking an OB/GYN in Savannah, appointments with Dr. Sejour or other providers from the St. Joseph’s/Candler Physician Network can be requested.
