Discuss how preconception care contributes to a healthy pregnancy and positive pregnancy outcomes.
Prenatal factors are evidently significant factors in the development of childhood disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, and certain adolescent and adult-onset diseases. The expecting mother’s lifestyle choices and practices dictate the health and development of her baby; the environment to which the mother subjects herself to can also influence not just the baby’s health but hers as well. Preconception care can help mitigate and prevent the occurrence of complications and other health issues that may affect the child throughout their lifetime.
Preconception care starts with family planning as the practice of preconception care is more likely to be done for planned pregnancies. Planned pregnancies would usually mean that the mother, along with her partner, utilize preconception care such as folic acid supplementation, and proper and adequate nutrition. Alongside family planning, the practice of safe sex and the use of contraceptives can lessen the risk of STIs and their vertical transmission. As one’s pregnancy progresses, different deficiencies and risks will arise, so it is important to make sure to keep up with the need for certain vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin D, Magnesium, Iron, and DHA. Preconception care is not all about receiving what is needed, it also tackles the things that are ought to be avoided. It has been known that exposure to teratogenic materials, smoke, drugs, and alcoholic beverages can lead to adverse consequences for both the mother and child. This can lead to a formation of a safer environment that is free from stressors and harmful substances.
Proper education on the benefits of preconception care is important in the promotion of safe and healthy pregnancies, as this can aid the decision-making of soon-to-be parents. Decisions regarding this matter can a family’s financial situation as preconception care can help prevent illnesses and disorders, thus, preventing the accumulation of health expenses such as hospital bills and medication.
Preconception care is indeed a way to keep the health of expecting mothers as well as a way to make sure their offspring are born into the world as healthy as can be.
References:
Genuis, S. J., & Genuis, R. A. (2016). Preconception care: A new standard of care within maternal health services. BioMed Research International, 2016, 1–30. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/6150976
Klerman L. V. (2006). Family planning services: an essential component of preconception care. Maternal and child health journal, 10(5 Suppl), S157–S160. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-006-0109-8