Preconception care: nutritional risks and interventions

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Maternal Nutrition
• Public Health

Background:

• Women of reproductive age face a dual burden of undernutrition and obesity.
• Preconception factors like low/high BMI, short stature, and micronutrient deficiencies increase maternal and fetal risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze evidence on preconception care for reproductive-aged women.
• To assess the impact of preconception care on maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies and clinical trials.
• Comprehensive literature search across electronic databases.
• Cross-referencing and targeted searches for specific risks and interventions.

Main Results:

• Maternal pre-pregnancy weight significantly impacts outcomes: underweight increases preterm birth risk (32%), obesity doubles preeclampsia/gestational diabetes risk.
• Overweight is linked to higher Cesarean delivery rates and newborn congenital defects (neural tube, heart).
• Folic acid supplementation is highly effective (69% reduction in recurrent neural tube defects); multiple micronutrients show promise for reducing anomalies and preeclampsia.

Conclusions:

• Nutritional assessment and intervention are vital for all women, especially adolescents and those with short inter-pregnancy intervals.
• Optimizing maternal BMI and micronutrient status is key.
• Expanding nutrition-specific and sensitive strategies is necessary, with ongoing monitoring for improved interventions.