Medical history
Health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid concerns, seizures, or mental health needs — and how they are currently managed.
Preconception care · Libertyville, IL
Planning ahead can help you feel more prepared
Whether pregnancy is part of your near future or you are simply beginning to think about it, Dr. Yasir A. Mekki and the Alliance OB/GYN team are here to listen, answer questions, and help you take thoughtful first steps in Libertyville.
You do not need a perfect plan
Come with your questions — not all the answers
Every path to pregnancy is different. We focus on what is relevant to your health, your timing, and your goals without judgment or pressure.
A healthy beginning starts with you
Preconception care is care for your whole health
A visit before pregnancy gives us time to review health concerns that may affect pregnancy, make sure your current care still fits your needs, and discuss changes that could be helpful before you begin trying to conceive.
Your visit, made useful
What we may review together
The conversation is personalized. Not every patient needs every test, and recommendations depend on your history.
Medications & supplements
Prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Please talk with us before stopping a prescribed medication.
Pregnancy & gynecologic history
Prior pregnancies, deliveries, pregnancy losses, surgeries, menstrual cycles, contraception, and any concerns about becoming pregnant.
Vaccines & testing
Your immunization history and whether screening or laboratory work may be appropriate before pregnancy.
Family & genetic history
Health conditions in your family or your partner’s family and whether carrier screening or genetic counseling should be considered.
Everyday well-being
Nutrition, movement, sleep, stress, nicotine, alcohol, workplace exposures, and other factors that may affect you or a future pregnancy.
Simple first steps
You can begin before your appointment
Small, realistic actions matter more than trying to make everything perfect at once.
1
Start a prenatal vitamin
Choose one with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid unless a clinician has recommended a different amount for you.
2
Gather your health information
Make a list of medications and supplements, vaccine records, health conditions, allergies, and prior pregnancy details.
3
Write down what matters to you
Bring questions about timing, cycles, health risks, genetic screening, medications, or anything making you feel uncertain.
Help us understand the full picture
What to bring
- A medication and supplement list
- Your vaccination history, if available
- Details from prior pregnancies or surgeries
- Family health history for you and your partner
- Your questions, priorities, and timeline
Coordinated when needed
Some plans benefit from extra support
If your health history suggests specialized guidance may be helpful, we can discuss the next step and coordinate a referral. This may include maternal-fetal medicine, genetic counseling, or another specialist.
You may want to schedule before trying if you:
- Manage a chronic medical or mental health condition
- Take medication you are unsure about during pregnancy
- Have experienced pregnancy complications or recurrent loss
- Have a personal or family history of a genetic condition
- Have questions about fertility, cycle timing, or age-related concerns
Already have a positive pregnancy test?
You did not miss your chance to prepare
Contact our office to arrange prenatal care. Keep taking prescribed medication unless your clinician advises otherwise, and bring your questions to your first visit.
Clear answers before pregnancy
When should I schedule a preconception visit?+
You can schedule whenever you begin thinking about pregnancy. A visit before trying gives you time to review medications, vaccines, health conditions, and personal concerns, but it is never too late to ask questions.
Do I need laboratory testing before pregnancy?+
Not everyone needs the same tests. Based on your history, we may discuss immunity testing, carrier screening, STI screening, thyroid testing, or other laboratory work when appropriate.
Should my partner be part of the conversation?+
Partners are welcome if you would like them involved. Their family history, health, medications, and lifestyle can also be relevant to planning a pregnancy.
When should I stop birth control?+
The answer depends on the method you use and your preferred timing. We can explain what to expect when you stop and help you plan the transition.
What if I am worried about infertility?+
You can bring that concern to us. We can review your menstrual and health history, discuss when an initial evaluation may be appropriate, and refer to a fertility specialist if needed.
Let’s plan for your healthiest possible beginning
Our team will meet you where you are and help turn uncertainty into a practical, personalized plan.