Counselling and planning

The road to a safe, happy and healthy pregnancy begins long before you have a positive result on a pregnancy test. During preconception counselling, Dr Baloyi will discuss many aspects of pregnancy and help you plan for a healthy pregnancy.

Preconception care should be an integral part of primary care for women of reproductive age, especially those planning a family in the near future.

Dr Baloyi recommends scheduling a preconception appointment at least three months before trying to become pregnant. Dr Baloyi will conduct a physical exam to check the heart, lungs, breasts, thyroid, blood pressure and abdomen. He may also perform a pelvic examination and record your weight.

He will also discuss any specific health requirements, for e.g. taking folic acid supplements, having an up to date cervical smear, rubella immunisation, etc. He can also advise on the best time for intercourse to help increase the chances of conceiving.

Evaluation and management of recurrent miscarriages

If you've had multiple miscarriages, Dr Baloyi will do a full assessment and workup to determine the cause of the miscarriages. These tests may include blood tests, ultrasounds, hormone tests, and biopsies.

Infertility workup

An infertility evaluation for women involves tests and examinations to determine the reason for infertility. If a cause is determined, treatment may be possible, but success is not guaranteed. Dr Baloyi recommends that females get an infertility evaluation if they have not gotten pregnant after one year of having frequent sexual intercourse without using birth control. Women older than 35 should get evaluated after six months of trying. If you are older than 40, talk to Dr Baloyi as soon as possible about an evaluation.