Optimising preconception health in women of reproductive age.

Optimising preconception health in women of reproductive age. Minerva Ginecol. 2017 Sep 12;: Authors: Lang AY, Boyle JA, Fitzgerald G, Teede H, Mazza D, Moran LJ, Harrison C Abstract There is a growing realisation that efforts to optimise the health of women and reduce the risk of adverse maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes during pregnancy should commence in the preconception period. The preconception period (prior to or between pregnancies) provides an opportune time to address reproductive intentions and promote and support wellbeing and healthy behaviour change regardless of pregnancy intention. Research over the last 30 years has explored the influence of a range of preconception risk factors and determinants of health on pregnancy and maternal and neonatal outcomes including: pregnancy planning, diet and micronutrient supplementation, physical activity, weight, smoking, recreational drug and alcohol use, mental health, oral hygiene, and chronic health and medical conditions. Preconception health messages, recommendations and guidelines originated in the United States (US) and the preconception movement has gained momentum internationally with a variety of strategies developed and tested for improving preconception health, and related outcomes. The shift to integrate preconception health promotion into the continuum of women's healthcare requires a diverse multi-level and multi-strategic approach involving a range of secto...
Source: Minerva Ginecologica - Category: OBGYN Tags: Minerva Ginecol Source Type: research