Chandigarh, Sept. 25 — Women should undergo essential medical examinations before planning a pregnancy to avoid health complications, said Dr. Pooja Sikka of the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), stressing that untreated conditions often worsen once conception occurs.
The advice came during an awareness session on antenatal and non-communicable disease (NCD) care, held under the national campaign Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan at PGIMER’s gynecology outpatient department. The programme drew 306 patients in gynecology and 132 in obstetrics.
“Pregnancy should be carefully planned, with women undergoing necessary tests before conception,” Dr. Sikka said. She noted that early registration, routine check-ups, proper nutrition, timely vaccination, preventive screenings and timely interventions are crucial for the health of both mother and child.
Offering practical advice, Dr. Sikka urged women to undergo regular haemoglobin testing and strictly follow iron supplementation. “Take iron tablets with lemon water to improve absorption and avoid consuming them with tea or coffee,” she said, adding that small adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of anaemia.
On diabetes care, she called glucose testing during pregnancy essential. “Regular monitoring ensures both mother and baby remain safe,” she explained. Dr. Sikka further pointed out that blood pressure checks are equally important. “Hypertension is one of the leading causes of complications in pregnancy, and every expectant mother should keep a close check on it,” she added.
The session, aimed at strengthening maternal and child health, encouraged women to adopt safe practices and proactive health measures before and during pregnancy.
