A General Practitioner (GP) is well placed to coordinate an individual or couple’s health needs and ensure that medical, gynaecological, mental and social factors are considered prior to pregnancy. While access and cost can be barriers for some consumers, encouragement from other community-based health professionals can be an effective way to reconnect individuals with their GP.

GPs can provide comprehensive preconception care, including:

• Personal and family history: Assessing medical, gynaecological or mental health conditions.
• Genetic screening and carrier testing: Screening for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, Fragile X Syndrome and Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Tests are conducted via blood or saliva samples, and Medicare rebates are available regardless of personal or family history.
• Medication Review: Evaluating prescription, over the counter, and herbal medications that may affect fertility or pregnancy.
• Contraception and sexual health checks: Including cervical screening and STI testing, which can also be accessed at community health centres, mobile women’s health services, women’s health centres, family planning clinics, sexual health clinics, True Relationship and Reproductive Health Clinics or Aboriginal Medical services.
• Immunisation review: Ensuring up to-to-date vaccinations prior to conception, as some vaccines are unsafe during pregnancy and certain infections can pose serious risks to both woman and baby.
• Home and social environment assessment: Identifying risks such as domestic violence risk or other social concerns.
• Dental health: Addressing oral health issues, which can impact overall health and pregnancy outcomes.

GP-led preconception care provides a holistic approach to optimise health and improve outcomes for both parents and their future child.

Any health professional discussing preconception care should encourage consumers or patients to book an appointment with their GP to review their preconception health.

Preconception care involves many aspects of health, including medical history, medications, immunisations, genetic screening, and supporting positive physical and mental health. A GP is best placed to navigate these considerations and connect individuals with the appropriate tests, advice, or supports to optimise the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

While appointments may feel costly for some, GPs remain the primary health professional for addressing key preconception health needs and coordinating care.