Preconceptional care: opportunities and challenges

Abstract

The aim of the study was to identify the opportunities required for straightening of preconceptional health and care, according to medical literature. Benefits and potential risks were mentioned. Some international experiences related to preconceptional care management were analyzed, by making references especially to those from US, including the actions initiated by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In this article the WHO position is mentioned which develops a global consensus on preconceptional care to reduce maternal and childhood mortality and morbidity, proving a "menu of interventions" which lists the health problems, behavioral problems and risk factors in thirteen domains, evidence-based interventions to address them and mechanisms of delivering them. A special section is dedicated to some controversies in preconceptional care management, priority at the medical primary care. The WHO recommendations and the international experience represent a good support for health care systems from different countries to improve the access to the care before getting pregnant and overcoming inequalities. In this context, authors consider that the improving of preconceptional care in each country depends, first of all, on the wish of governors and health care providers. In conclusion, the hypothesis to review the family planning concept is suggested, considering that it has equally to include two main components - contraception and preconceptional care. It will provide real opportunities for people to achieve their reproductive life plan to have not only wanted, but also healthy children.

Keywords

• preconceptional care and health
• family doctor
• family planning
• opportunities
• challenges