What is preconception health?
DGRefHelp - NHS Dumfries & Galloway
Warning
- Preconception health describes the health status of any woman or man before a pregnancy is conceived, regardless of pregnancy intention.
- There is a clear link between a baby’s health and their mother’s health before (and between) pregnancies.
- By taking actions to optimise health prior to a pregnancy being conceived, the risk of adverse outcomes such as birth defects, premature birth and very low birth weight can be significantly reduced and the health and wellbeing of the mother and baby maximised.
- Ideally all pregnancies should be planned.