Is preconception care the same as genetic counseling?
Preconception care is a relatively new concept in preventive medicine that helps couples to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle before conception. Genetic counseling may be included in preconception care, but the primary areas if concern are aspects of the couple’s health and lifestyle. Nutrition, exercise, and substance use and/or abuse are some of the obvious areas of concern. The theory behind preconception care is that a woman who maintains good health habits is more likely to have an easy pregnancy and delivery – and a healthy baby – than a woman who is not healthy.
