Preconception Care and Pregnancy Outcome
by NaturoBest Naturopath Team on May 02, 2022
The Foresight Preconception Association in the U.K. conducted a landmark study involving 367 couples who participated in a structured preconception health care programme. Of these couples, 217 (59%) had a history of reproductive challenges, including:
• 136 cases of infertility
• 139 previous miscarriages
• 11 stillbirths
• 40 babies born small-for-dates
• 15 babies with low birthweight
• 7 cases of malformations
• 3 infants who had died from sudden infant death syndrome
After both partners underwent the preconception programme, 327 couples conceived and went on to have healthy babies. The average birthweight was 3265 grams, and remarkably, there were no miscarriages or malformations recorded in the pregnancies that followed.
These results highlight the profound impact that a structured preconception care plan can have on reproductive outcomes. A comprehensive approach, combining dietary improvements, lifestyle adjustments and high-quality nutritional supplementation, helps optimise reproductive health for both partners.
Experiencing infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth or birth defects can be emotionally devastating. While not all contributing factors can be controlled, preconception care empowers couples to address modifiable risks before conception occurs. This makes it an essential step for anyone planning to start or grow their family.
A four-month preconception care plan offers the best opportunity to support a healthy pregnancy. Evidence suggests it can reduce the risk of miscarriage, premature labour, stillbirth and birth defects, with reported success rates of over 80%. By investing time into preparing the body for conception, couples can greatly improve their chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy and welcoming a thriving baby.
Final thoughts
Preconception care is one of the most powerful steps couples can take to support a healthy pregnancy. The evidence shows that when both partners commit to improving their diet, lifestyle and nutritional status in the months before conception, the impact on pregnancy outcomes can be remarkable. While not every risk can be eliminated, taking control of the factors that can be influenced offers couples confidence, clarity and a stronger foundation for welcoming a healthy baby. Preparing well before conception is an investment in your future family’s health and wellbeing.
