Preconception

The choice has been made: you would like to have a baby! The desire to have children brings an exciting period. Often this is also a period with many questions and uncertainties. Will it work out soon? What do we need to take into account?

We call the period prior to pregnancy preconception. Preconception stands for the period between considering and actually becoming pregnant. Research has shown how important the first period of pregnancy is. Many problems during pregnancy and possibly later in the child’s life originate in the first stages of the embryo and placenta growth. Through a healthy lifestyle and the right advice you can positively affect the circumstances under which you become pregnant and the pregnancy outcome for yourself and your child!

Preconception consult

During this consult, we can provide you with information and advice on the various topics related to pregnancy. By taking a closer look at your health, lifestyle and, for example, work atmosphere, we can give you tailored advice.

The costs incurred by such a consult have been reimbursed by all insurance companies since 2017. If you wish, the consult can be combined with the removal of your intrauterine device (IUD), or also known as intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD or ICD) or coil.

‘Zwangerwijzer’

The pregnancy guide can help you prepare for a pregnancy. ‘Zwangerwijzer‘ is a questionnaire that you and your partner can fill in to estimate possible risk factors for yourself or your future child. The webform is in Dutch (and is preferred), but there is an English translation available as well.

Folic acid

The desire to have children and preparing for a pregnancy also includes the use of folic acid. Folic acid reduces the risk of a child with neural tube defects. Use folic acid from 4 weeks before pregnancy up to and including 8 weeks after conception (this is the 10th week of pregnancy). Dosage: 0.4 or 0.5 milligrams.

Women with an increased risk of a child with a spina bifida are advised an increased dose of 5 milligrams of folic acid. A prescription is required for these tablets, which can be requested at your GP.