Women aiming to conceive should definitely undergo gynecological examination. Particularly, the evaluation of their ovaries and uterus is crucial, and any pathology that might hinder pregnancy should be investigated.

In this examination, a Pap smear should definitely be included. The World Health Organization and many obstetric societies recommend the use of folic acid three months before pregnancy. Therefore, patients are started on 400 mg of folic acid. It’s worth noting that excessive use of folic acid has been associated with an increased risk of autism in babies. Hence, women aspiring to become pregnant should take 400 mg of folic acid daily.

If there are any chronic illnesses that may jeopardize pregnancy during pregnancy (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease), their treatment should be modified appropriately for pregnancy.

Occasionally, hormone tests and sperm tests are requested from individuals coming with concerns about whether they will have a child. However, there is no need for such tests in individuals planning for pregnancy.