Pre-conception Care Overview:
Pre-conception care, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO),
encompasses biomedical, behavioral, and social health interventions aimed at
improving the health status of women and couples before conception occurs. The
ultimate goal is to enhance maternal and child health outcomes in both the short and
long term. This comprehensive approach focuses on managing long-term health
conditions, eliminating risky behaviors, and promoting healthy habits.
- Managing Long Term Health Conditions:
It is vital to address any pre-existing health conditions before conception. At
OBSGYN London, we provide early appointments to discuss pre-pregnancy plans
thoroughly. This includes monitoring chronic medical concerns, mental health
conditions, and pre-existing metabolic diseases to ensure optimal health before
starting a pregnancy. - Stopping Risky/Harmful Habits:
Certain habits, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, can significantly impact
pregnancy outcomes. We offer support and strategies to quit smoking through
smoking cessation programs, involving family and friends if needed. Similarly, we
provide extensive counseling on avoiding alcohol and drug misuse before, during,
and after pregnancy. - Promoting Healthy Habits:
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for fertility and pregnancy. Being
overweight or obese can pose challenges to conception and increase the risk of
pregnancy complications. Our healthcare professionals offer support to reduce and
maintain a healthy weight through tailored diet and exercise plans.
Key Steps for Pre-conception Health:
a. Take a Folic Acid Supplement: Folic acid supplementation is crucial for
reducing the risk of birth defects. We recommend a daily supplement of 400
micrograms (μg) before and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. In some
cases, a higher dose may be necessary, especially for individuals with a family
history of neural tube defects or certain medical conditions.
b. Quit Smoking: Smoking during pregnancy is associated with various health
problems, including premature birth and low birth weight. Our team provides
strategies, plans, and support to help individuals quit smoking before
conception.
c. Avoid Alcohol: Complete avoidance of alcohol is advised when planning a
pregnancy. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage
and a range of developmental issues in the child. We offer extensive
counseling on alcohol avoidance and support for individuals planning a
pregnancy.
d. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity can impact fertility and increase the risk
of pregnancy complications. Our healthcare professionals offer guidance on
maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and exercise.
e. Review Medications: Not all medications are safe during pregnancy. We
advise individuals to discuss their medication with us to ensure safety during
pregnancy. Adjustments or close monitoring may be necessary for certain
medications. - NICE CKS Pre-conception – advice and management. Last revised in April 2023.
Available at:
[https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/pre-conception-advice-and-management/](https://cks.ni
ce.org.uk/topics/pre-conception-advice-and-management/)
[Accessed 2023.] - FSRH CEU Statement: Pre-conception Care (August 2016).
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preconception Health and Health
Care. 2015.
Available at:
[https://www.cdc.gov/preconception/planning.html](https://www.cdc.gov/preconceptio
n/planning.html)
[Accessed 2023.] - Sher J. Missed Periods: Scotland’s opportunities for better pregnancies, healthier
parents and thriving babies the first time … and every time. NHS Greater Glasgow
and Clyde (PublicHealth). 2016.
Available at:
[http://www.nhsggc.org.uk/media/237840/missed-periods-j-sher-may-2016.pdf](http://
www.nhsggc.org.uk/media/237840/missed-periods-j-sher-may-2016.pdf)
[Accessed 22/08/2016] - Healthy eating and vitamin supplements in pregnancy. RCOG.
Available at:
[https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/healthy-eatingand-vitamin-supplements-in-pregnancy/](https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/brow
se-our-patient-information/healthy-eating-and-vitamin-supplements-in-pregnancy/#:~:
text=Taking%20extra%20folic%20acid%20may,your%2013th%20week%20of%20pre
gnancy.) - Meeting to Develop a Global Consensus on Preconception Care to Reduce
Maternal and Childhood Mortality and Morbidity. World Health Organization
Headquarters, Geneva6–7 February 2012 Meeting report.
Available at:
[https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241505000](https://www.who.int/publicat
ions/i/item/9789241505000) - Smoking and pregnancy. RCOG.
Available at:
[https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/smoking-and-p
regnancy/](https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/smo
king-and-pregnancy/)
[Accessed: 23 January 2024] - Alcohol and pregnancy. RCOG.
Available at:
[https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/alcohol-and-pr
egnancy/](https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/alco
hol-and-pregnancy/)
[Accessed: 23 January 2024] - Providing quality care for women A framework for maternity care standards.:
RCOG 2016