PRE-CONCEPTION CARE
Read the article ‘Preconception Care: A New Standard of Care within Maternal Health Services’ https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2016/6150976/ (Lin
Discuss how preconception care contributes to healthy pregnancy and positive pregnancy outcomes. Post answers as reply in the discussion forum.
Predominantly, the existence and development of childhood disorders, genetic anomalies, and certain illnesses of adolescence and adulthood are often influenced by prenatal factors as the pregnant mother's lifestyle choices and behaviors influence her child's health and development. The cruciality of appropriate and proper preconception care is elucidated as it plays an impactful role in preventing the incidence of complications and other health disorders that may adversely affect the child throughout his life’s entirety.
Preconception care is provided by a doctor to a woman or man which focuses on medical advice on adult health throughout their reproductive years. This tailored approach to health ensures that adults are healthy and that birth outcome is favorable. To further discuss, preconception care facilitates effective family planning especially in instigating healthy practices such as folic acid supplementation and adherence to adequate and necessary nourishment. It is critical to note that as the pregnancy progresses, various hormonal and physiological changes occur which places the mother at risk for potential health complications. In response, efficient preconception care ensures that the mother is holistically ready for the demands of pregnancy by obtaining the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Furthermore, preconception care promotes the practice of safe sex and utilization of contraception which would significantly reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases acquisition.
Preconception care also facilitates a deep understanding of the situation at hand by guiding the couple on actions and substances that may create an adverse impact on the intended pregnancy. For instance, exposure to teratogenic substances can cause birth defects, and cigarettes, narcotics, and alcoholic beverages can all have negative implications for both the mother and her child. With preconception care, the creation of a safer, non-hazardous environment, free from stressors and potentially hazardous chemicals is significantly given emphasis as it is crucial for the optimal childbearing process.
In the promotion of preconception care, providing proper education and correct information dissemination on its purpose, benefits, and salience is very critical to achieving an in-depth understanding of the process which would lead to faithful adherence. Preconception care is a crucial step towards the achievement of healthy and safe pregnancies as influenced by informed and educated decisions. Looking through a financial perspective, preconception care may help avoid unprecedented medical expenses and fees as appropriate measures would be performed in order to ensure optimal health of mothers and their children as well.
After all, this individualized approach entails taking charge and forming healthy behaviors that promote living well, being healthy, and having a positive outlook on life. Making a plan for the future and taking the necessary actions to ensure favorable outcomes is what preconception care is all about!
References:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) Preconception Health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/preconception/overview.html
Genius, SJ (May 2016) Preconception Care: A New Standard of Care within Maternal Health Services. BioMed Research International. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/6150976