Pre-Pregnancy Counselling
Planning a pregnancy or trying to conceive after a previous complication is a good time to take stock before rather than after conception. A pre-pregnancy consultation with Michael gives you the chance to review your medical history, discuss any previous pregnancy or birth complications, and optimise chronic health conditions ahead of time.
The consultation also covers genetic screening options, medication safety, and lifestyle factors that can influence pregnancy outcomes. Michael will also review and advise on the need for vitamin supplementation, vaccinations, and any chronic medical conditions, in addition to reviewing any previous pregnancies, regardless of their outcome.
Rather than waiting until the first antenatal visit, this appointment allows any relevant issues to be identified and addressed early, when there is the most time to act on them.
What this involves
Review of your general and reproductive medical history
Discussion of any previous miscarriage, pregnancy loss, or birth complications
Assessment and optimisation of pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or hypertension
Advice on genetic carrier screening and when it's appropriate
Review of current medications for pregnancy safety
Discussion of lifestyle factors, including nutrition, weight, and supplementation
Discussion on pregnancy vitamins and supplements
Who this is for
This consultation is particularly valuable if you have a history of miscarriage, a previous high-risk pregnancy, a chronic medical condition, or if you would simply like to enter pregnancy feeling informed and prepared.
Why Choose Dr Michael Silagy
Michael is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRANZCOG), with training across multiple tertiary and peripheral sites. Because he provides continuity of care from your very first consultation through to birth and beyond, a pre-pregnancy appointment isn't a one-off, it's the start of an ongoing relationship with the same obstetrician who will care for you throughout your pregnancy. Michael takes the time to listen, talk through your options, and build a plan that reflects what matters to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book a pre-pregnancy consultation?
Ideally a 3-6 months before you plan to start trying to conceive, so there's time to act on any recommendations, for example, adjusting medication or arranging genetic screening, before pregnancy begins. However you do not have to be currently planning a pregnancy to have a pre-pregnancy counselling appointment.
Do I need a referral?
A referral from your GP is generally required to claim a Medicare rebate for specialist consultations. Your GP can also provide relevant background on your medical history ahead of the appointment.
What if I've had a previous miscarriage or complication?
This is one of the most common reasons for a pre-pregnancy consultation. Michael will go through your previous history in detail and discuss what, if anything, might be done differently this time.
Will I need any tests before the appointment?
Some baseline blood tests may be arranged, but this depends on your individual history. Michael will let you know what's relevant during or after your first consultation.
Personalised Pregnancy Care & Birthing Toorak, Melbourne
Michael welcomes the opportunity to discuss your pregnancy care needs and help you plan for this special time in your life. Contact the practice to schedule your initial consultation and begin your personalised pregnancy care journey.