Family and parenting

Preconceptual is when considering to have a child.

maturity:couples need to be mature enough to have a baby as they are a lot of responsibilty and changes will happen. 

Financial:finances need to be planned in advance. one partner may need to leave work and the cost of child care and thr equipment.

Accomodation:A cild needs a safe, clean place to live which is suitable for a baby and to cope wit a growing family. 

changing lifestyles:couples need to consider the roles they will take after the birth of the baby.For example:  One partner may take a career break. there will be less money available loss of freedom babies need 24 hour care. long lasting responsibiltys.  

Choosing when to have a baby:ready to accept responsibilty. able to space the arrival of a child able to provide for each childs physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs in a stable, mature relationship.

the womans health before conception must be considered: A good nutritious diet. not to be overweight  be as healthy as possible. give up smoking and drinking alcohol. avoid harmful drugs check if she is immune to rubella genetic counselling- check for hereditary diseases.

Folic acid should be taken before and during early month of pregnancy. Helps prevent spina bifidia. This is when the brain and spine dont develop properly.  Good sources of folic acid are: Brocolli wholegrain cereals whole meal bread. there are supplements available too..

Genetic Counselling:Children inherit genes from their parents.  They may also contain defects and disorders which may result in diseases being inherted by the baby.

inheireted diseases: Cystic fibrosis- Thick sticky mucus blocks the lungs. Haemophilla- where blood fails to clot. Thalassaemia- a type of anaemia that is a disorder of the red blood cells. sickle cell anameia- disorder affecting red blood cells PKU-brain becomes damaged causing the child to be mentally handicapped. muscular dystrophy- weakens the muscles.

pre-conceptual health and care

preconceptual care