On this Women’s Day, as conversations around empowerment grow stronger, Dr. Sumeet Baheti is quietly redefining what strength truly means for women—the strength to plan ahead and take care of their future child even before pregnancy begins.

Dr. Baheti, Senior Consultant Obstetrician-Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist at KIMS Kingsway Hospital, believes that a healthy pregnancy does not begin with a positive test result. It actually starts months before conception—with simple awareness and timely preparation.

With advanced qualifications including MRCOG (UK) and a Master’s in Reproductive Medicine (UK), she has dedicated her career to guiding women through every stage of reproductive health. However, she believes one topic still needs more attention—preconception care, or planning health before pregnancy.

“Most couples think pregnancy care starts after they miss a period. In reality, a baby’s early development begins in the first few weeks—often before a woman even realises she is pregnant.” – Dr. Sumeet Baheti

One of the most important aspects she highlights is nutritional optimisation. Simple steps like correcting anaemia, treating vitamin deficiencies, and starting folic acid early can make a big difference. Research shows that taking enough folate before pregnancy can reduce the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%.

Preconception care, she says, is not about looking for problems—it is about being prepared and confident. It includes reviewing medical history, lifestyle habits, vaccinations, and even family genetic backgrounds. These small checks help prevent bigger problems later.

Dr. Baheti also emphasises something often overlooked—shared responsibility. “Preparing for pregnancy is not just the woman’s role,” she says. Research increasingly shows that paternal health influences fertility and embryo development. A father’s lifestyle—including smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and stress—can also affect the baby’s long-term health.

She also works to break common myths. Preconception consultation is not only for couples struggling to conceive. It is meant for every couple planning a baby. Planning ahead reduces fear and confusion, helping couples feel more ready and relaxed.

In her consultations, couples are encouraged to adopt healthier routines: eat balanced meals, exercise regularly, sleep well, manage stress, and avoid tobacco and excessive caffeine. Vaccination checks are equally important, especially for infections such as rubella and varicella, which can harm the baby during pregnancy.

Managing existing health conditions is another key step. Problems like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or high blood pressure need control even before conception. Blood sugar levels, for example, should be stable before pregnancy begins. Certain medicines may also need to be changed safely under medical guidance.

Beyond medical advice, her message is emotional and reassuring. Women who plan early often feel calmer and more confident when they conceive. Instead of worrying about complications, they begin motherhood feeling informed and prepared.

On this Women’s Day, Dr. Baheti’s message is clear and powerful: “A healthy pregnancy does not begin with two pink lines,” she reminds. “It begins with informed choices, thoughtful planning, and shared responsibility.”