When is preconception care recommended for neural tube defects?

Neural tube defects develop very early in pregnancy, sometimes before pregnancy is recognised. A planning visit gives a clinician time to review previous pregnancy outcomes, diabetes and other health conditions, medicines, nutrition, and family history. It also creates a chance to discuss folic acid and the dose suited to your circumstances.

Arrange the appointment before stopping contraception if possible. Bring a list of medicines and supplements and details of previous pregnancies. Do not stop prescribed treatment without advice. Your clinician may recommend a tailored folic-acid plan, improve control of health conditions, and refer you for genetic counselling when family or pregnancy history suggests it.

Contact a clinician promptly if you are already pregnant and have not started preconception advice, or if you have diabetes, take medicines that may affect pregnancy, or previously had a pregnancy with a neural tube defect. Urgent symptoms in pregnancy, such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fainting, need immediate assessment.

Ask when to start folic acid, whether your dose should be personalised, which medicines need review, and whether ultrasound or genetic counselling should be part of your plan.