At North Carolina OB/GYN and Midwifery, we offer both family planning services and preconception care for women to help them achieve their reproductive goals—whether that means preventing pregnancy, planning for the future, or starting a family now. From helping you build a preparing for pregnancy checklist to providing contraceptive options, our team of obstetric, gynecology, midwifery specialists provide comprehensive care that empowers women to make informed choices about their reproductive health at every stage of life.
What Is Family Planning and Preconception Counseling?
Family planning refers to the process of making informed decisions about if and when to have children. It includes education about fertility, contraception, and reproductive health. Preconception counseling, a key part of this process, focuses on evaluating your physical, emotional, and lifestyle readiness before getting pregnant. It ensures that you’re in the best possible health for conception and pregnancy.
Why Preconception Counseling Matters
Too often, women wait until they are pregnant to address health issues that could have been managed earlier. Preconception counseling allows you to be proactive. It can:
- Identify and manage chronic health conditions
- Review current medications for pregnancy safety
- Address nutritional needs and supplement use (such as folic acid)
- Evaluate family and genetic history
- Support mental health and emotional wellness
By investing in preconception care, you lay the foundation for a healthier pregnancy, delivery, and baby.
Topics Covered in a Preconception Visit
Your preconception counseling appointment will be personalized to your health and goals, but typically includes:
- Review of menstrual cycles and ovulation
- Discussion of fertility and timing
- Health screenings (e.g., blood pressure, glucose, thyroid)
- Vaccination review and updates
- Lifestyle guidance, including weight management, exercise, and nutrition
- Environmental exposures and workplace risks
- Planning for pregnancy steps and checklists
This visit is also a great time to address any concerns about getting pregnant or questions about fertility.
Family Planning Services We Provide
We understand that reproductive goals vary from person to person. That’s why our family planning services in North Carolina include:
- Contraceptive counseling and prescriptions
- Long-acting reversible contraception (IUDs, implants)
- Natural family planning education
- Fertility awareness and ovulation tracking support
- Guidance for individuals or couples trying to conceive
Our approach supports you whether you’re trying to prevent pregnancy, planning for a baby soon, or exploring your options.
When to Schedule a Preconception Appointment
Ideally, you should schedule a preconception counseling visit at least three to six months before you plan to start trying for a baby. This gives your provider time to optimize your health, address any concerns, and help you prepare physically and emotionally for pregnancy.
Even if you’re not sure when you’ll want to get pregnant, it can still be helpful to start the conversation early. Preconception care isn’t just for people ready to conceive—it’s a key part of long-term women’s health counseling.
How Our Midwives and OB-GYNs Support You
At North Carolina OB/GYN and Midwifery, our team of experienced OB-GYNs and certified nurse midwives works together to provide holistic, personalized care. We take the time to understand your goals and concerns so we can tailor your care accordingly. Whether you’re looking for support with family planning or preparing for pregnancy, we provide the guidance, screenings, and education you need for a healthy outcome.
Schedule a Consultation at North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery
Family planning and preconception counseling aren’t just about getting pregnant—they’re about being informed, prepared, and confident in your choices. Whether you’re actively planning for a baby or not quite ready, North Carolina OB/GYN and Midwifery is here to support you every step of the way—contact us today for a consultation.