Pre-conception counselling

Abstract

Pre-conception counselling (PCC) involves giving advice to people planning a pregnancy to optimise their health and maximise their chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy and baby. GPs have an important role in PCC, though some patients may receive PCC within secondary care. This article aims to provide an overview of what GPs should address with people requesting pre-conception advice. It focusses on practice in the United Kingdom; people in other countries and healthcare environments may have different needs.