The preconception appointment

Who does it, how it's reimbursed, what gets checked and why folic acid starts before pregnancy.

4 min read

The preconception appointment

Even before you start trying, one appointment can help you prepare: the preconception appointment. It's not a test to pass, it's a conversation to help you approach pregnancy in the best possible health, ask your questions and leave with a clear list of what to do.

Who does it, and when

According to the Assurance Maladie (France's national health insurance), it can be done by a doctor (GP, medical gynaecologist or obstetrician-gynaecologist) or by a midwife. France's national health authority (HAS) adds that this professional doesn't have to be the one who will later look after your pregnancy.

The right time: as soon as your plans start taking shape. The HAS actually lists planning to stop contraception among the occasions to offer this appointment. No need to wait until you've stopped.

What about reimbursement?

The HAS states that this appointment doesn't come with any specific funding arrangement: it works like a regular appointment. With your registered GP, or with a gynaecologist you see directly once you've registered a GP, the Assurance Maladie reimburses 70% of the standard fee. For an appointment with a midwife or a particular situation, your local health insurance office can tell you more.

What gets checked

Your history. The HAS lists the information to gather: your age, your weight, your family, surgical and gynaecological history, and what happened in any previous pregnancies.

An examination. The Assurance Maladie mentions measuring weight, height and BMI, blood pressure, a gynaecological examination including a breast examination, and a cervical screening test if needed.

Blood tests. To find out whether you're protected against rubella, hepatitis B, toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus; to screen for hepatitis C, HIV and syphilis; to determine your blood group (ABO, rhesus, Kell); and to check your blood sugar and lipids.

Your vaccinations. Being up to date, especially against whooping cough.

Vaccinations to plan ahead

Some vaccines have to be given before pregnancy, the Assurance Maladie explains: this is the case for rubella (MMR vaccine) and chickenpox. After these vaccines, pregnancy should be avoided for one month. Others, such as flu or Covid-19, can be given before or during pregnancy depending on current recommendations. Hence the value of bringing it up early.

Your medicines

The Assurance Maladie advises against self-medicating and encourages you to discuss all your treatments with your doctor before conception, including food supplements. If you have a long-term condition, the HAS recommends planning any adjustments ahead, with your specialist if needed. Don't stop a treatment on your own: talk about it first.

Folic acid (vitamin B9)

This is the simplest thing to start early. The HAS recommends 400 micrograms a day from the moment you plan a pregnancy until 12 weeks of pregnancy. The Assurance Maladie advises starting it if possible at least 4 weeks before conception, and points out that diet alone is generally not enough.

What European regulations allow to be said:

"Supplemental folic acid intake increases maternal folate status. Low maternal folate status is a risk factor in the development of neural tube defects in the developing foetus." The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 400 µg of folic acid for at least one month before and up to three months after conception (Regulation (EU) No 1135/2014).
"Folate contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy." (Regulation (EU) No 432/2012)

If you've previously had a pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect, say so: it's one of the pieces of information the professional gathers. They're the one who will tell you what to take. Lovae doesn't recommend any brand.

Your lifestyle

Alcohol: the Assurance Maladie advises stopping, because alcohol is very dangerous for the foetus from conception.
Smoking: ideally, stop before pregnancy and avoid second-hand smoke too. Help to quit can be offered.
Weight: if you're overweight, the HAS advises moving more and following dietary advice.
Food: the HAS includes advice to prevent listeriosis and, if needed, toxoplasmosis.

What about your partner?

The HAS suggests offering HIV testing to the couple and, if you're rhesus negative, finding out the future father's blood group. It also recommends whooping cough vaccination for adults likely to become parents. The article "For him" covers what the future father can do on his side.

This article is for information only. Lovae is not a medical device and does not replace medical advice. To prepare for your appointment, write down your questions beforehand and bring your vaccination record.

Sources

Official sources, accessed in September 2026.