Fertility & Pre-conception Care

Planning a pregnancy is an exciting step, and taking proactive steps before conceiving can improve outcomes for you and your future baby. Our practice provides advice, assessment, and support for people who are trying to conceive, including those with underlying conditions such as PCOS.

We follow national guidance from the NHS and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists to ensure safe, effective, and patient-centred pre-conception care.

Trying to Conceive

If you are trying for a baby, some general steps can help optimise your chances:

• Track your menstrual cycles to identify your fertile window

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, regular exercise, avoid smoking and limit alcohol

• Take a daily folic acid supplement (400 micrograms) before conception

• Manage chronic medical conditions with your GP or specialist

Most couples conceive naturally within 6–12 months. If you are under 35 and haven’t conceived after 12 months, or over 35 after 6 months, it is recommended to seek fertility advice.

Further information:

• NHS – Trying for a baby:
  https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/trying-for-a-baby/

When to Seek Fertility Support

You should consider referral to a fertility specialist if:

• You are under 35 and have not conceived after 12 months

• You are 35 or older and have not conceived after 6 months

• You have irregular periods, diagnosed conditions affecting fertility (e.g., PCOS, endometriosis)

• You or your partner have known reproductive health conditions

Your GP can perform initial investigations such as hormone tests, semen analysis for your partner, and provide advice on next steps.

Further information:

• NHS – Fertility support:
  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fertility-problems/

Folic Acid Advice

Folic acid is essential for early fetal development and helps prevent neural tube defects.

• Take 400 micrograms daily starting at least one month before conception

• Continue through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy

• Higher doses (5 mg) may be recommended for certain conditions—your GP can advise

Further information:

• NHS – Folic acid guidance:
  https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/folic-acid/

Pre-Pregnancy Medication Review

Some medications can affect fertility or be harmful during pregnancy.

Before trying to conceive, your GP or pharmacist can:

• Review all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements

• Advise on safe alternatives if needed

• Ensure vaccinations and chronic condition management are up-to-date

This ensures you start pregnancy on the safest footing for you and your baby.

PCOS-Related Fertility Issues

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can affect ovulation and fertility.

People with PCOS may experience:

• Irregular periods

• Difficulty conceiving

• Weight gain, insulin resistance, or excess hair growth

Management may include:

• Lifestyle interventions (weight management, exercise, diet)

• Medications to induce ovulation (e.g., clomifene, letrozole)

• Referral to fertility services if conception does not occur naturally

Further information:

• NHS – PCOS and fertility:
  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/

Please book an appointment with your GP if you are:

• Planning a pregnancy and need pre-conception advice

• Concerned about fertility or PCOS-related issues

• Taking medications that may affect pregnancy

• Experiencing irregular periods, pain, or other reproductive health concerns

We provide confidential, supportive consultations and clear referral pathways to fertility specialists where appropriate.