Until recently, there has been an increasing trend towards the recognition and acceptance of the importance of preconception care in preventing neonatal and birth defects. Apparently, maternal health and lifestyle choices prior to pregnancy have been noted to facilitate greatly on foetal development and outcomes.
What Is Pre-conception Care?
It consists of healthcare services offered to individuals or couples before pregnancy to maximize their health and that of their offspring; and facilitate proper health outcomes for mother and child. This intervention acknowledges the significance of the period in precedence of conception and is associated with influences in the health and development of the baby.
The scope of care entails a collection of services aiming to promote the proper welfare of the parent and offspring as well as address any health issues that may interfere with child development. It purposes to educate and promote good health by providing guidance on healthy lifestyles that involve good nutrition, regular physical activity and the avoidance of drug and substance abuse. In addition, the screening and management of medical conditions is performed.
Medical conditions such as hypertension, infectious diseases etc are screened and proper management strategies are employed to minimize risk of maternal health and that of the planned offspring. Also genetic conditions are tested if necessary to establish the risk of genetic disorders transmission to child along with measures that can be implemented to lower risk if any. Individuals are assessed whether they are up to date with recommended vaccinations such as hepatitis and rubella to prevent transmission to the planned offspring. Through the early detection and management of STIs, maternal and foetal health can be preserved. A variety of family planning options are explored and couples are informed as to those most suitable for them.
Pre-conception care helps address any concerns to family planning and aside from physic well-being,it also promotes proper psychosocial support and mental health guidance. It aids in alleviating any stress, depression or anxiety that can cause adverse pregnancy outcomes thus contributing to improved overall reproductive health.