Power Of Preconception Care — Setting Women On The Path To Healthier Pregnancies And Future

{By: Dr. Manisha Kulkarni}

Preconception care is an important element in ensuring healthier and safe pregnancies and improving the maternal and child health outcomes. Preconception care involves medical and social health interventions that aim to address the health issues that could affect a woman during pregnancy or the health of the fetus. This proactive approach is taken before conception or between pregnancies to improve health outcomes for women, newborns, and children. The scope of preconception care extends beyond mere health advice, encompassing an assessment of social, behavioral, environmental, and economic factors that could impact a woman's health.

Taking care of a woman’s preconception period involves preparing her for a healthy pregnancy using several steps; these steps include caring for her nutrition, mental health, and managing her chronic diseases if there are any. To begin with, Nutritional Status and Supplementation involves eating a balanced diet to improve overall health while taking extra vitamin supplements, like folic acid which prevents birth defects such as neural tube defects. Chronic disease management controls long-term issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity. Doctors can work with her through monitoring and adjusting medicines as well.

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Mental Health, Lifestyle, And Genetic Counselling

From the family perspective, mental health involves managing stress, anxiety, and depression which stimulates balance hormonal levels and increases the chances of a healthy pregnancy. Other lifestyle factors include stopping smoking and drinking alcohol because these habits contribute to increased chances of miscarriage or premature birth. Regular physical exercise is effective in improving heart health and controlling weight. Additionally, genetic counseling helps couples with a family history of inheritable diseases understand the risks that lie ahead and prepare to ensure the baby is as healthy as possible.

Preconception care and consultations are a chance to check both partners for certain genetic conditions, like haemoglobin disorders, so that the pregnancy can be managed appropriately. It also helps to identify if either partner is not immune to certain infections, such as Rubella or Chickenpox. If needed, the doctor can recommend vaccinations before trying to conceive. Following all these steps are crucial to ensure the best possible conditions for both the mother and the baby.

Awareness, Accessibility, And Shared Responsibility

In addition, awareness and accessibility play a pivotal role in maximising the impact of preconception care. Many women may be unaware that a pre-pregnancy check-up even exists, or they may not have access to qualified professionals or affordable healthcare facilities. Therefore, strengthening health systems to provide integrated and equitable access to preconception services is critical. Public health campaigns, community outreach programs, and digital health platforms can all work synergistically to educate women and their partners on the importance of early planning. Furthermore, involving male partners in the process fosters shared responsibility and ensures both partners are aligned in creating a safe and supportive environment for conception and beyond.

The author, Dr. Manisha Kulkarni, is the Sr. Consultant – OBGYN and IVF, at Sahyadri Hospitals Momstory, Hadapsar, Pune.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

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