Hospital Offers Suggestions

For Pre-pregnancy Planning

DANBURY  — If a woman is thinking of becoming pregnant, it’s wise to start acting pregnant even before conception. That was the advice of James Xenophon, MD, an obstetrician/gynecologist speaking at a recent Medical Town Meeting on pregnancy planning sponsored by Danbury Hospital.

The meeting, “Sweet Expectations: The Journey to Parenthood,” provided information on planning a healthy  pregnancy, as well as detailing the birthing resources available at Danbury Hospital.

“I tell patients to start acting pregnant the moment they think about having a baby,” said Dr Xenophon.

That means, he said, not doing anything that you wouldn’t do if you were already pregnant, including smoking or drinking. It also includes avoiding unnecessary X-rays and medications and over-the-counter drugs, changing risky habits, and watching one’s diet.

Dr Xenophon recommends that couples identify and address risk factors before becoming pregnant, and have a overall medical check-up. In addition to stopping smoking and watching one’s diet, a woman should also be sure she is in good health, including being up-to-date on mammograms, gynecological exams and immunizations.

If a woman has had problems with previous pregnancies or miscarriages, she would be wise to discuss this with her doctor before becoming pregnant again, according to Dr Xenophon. That way, he says, potential risk factors or medical problems can be addressed and corrected. Once she is pregnant, it is important to receive regular care form an obstetrician/gynecologist, he said. Dr Xenophon also explained the types of tests a woman can have to assure that she and her baby are developing well.

For more information on pre-pregnancy planning, contact Danbury Hospital’s Programs for Parents at 203/778-BABY.