Introduction: Preconceptional care: do we have to care?

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Maternal-Child Health
• Genetics and Environment

Background:

• Newborn health is influenced by genetics and environment.
• Current medical care often focuses on in utero development.
• The preconception period is a critical, yet often overlooked, window for intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of the preconception period for offspring health.
• To advocate for the integration of modern preconception care into reproductive medicine.
• To emphasize the dual benefits for maternal and child health outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of data suggesting the impact of preconception care.
• Analysis of gene-environment interactions during the preconception phase.
• Identification of women's willingness to adopt healthy habits during this period.

Main Results:

• Preconception care can improve implantation and pregnancy rates.
• It has the potential to reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality.
• It optimizes health for mothers and children, influencing adult life.

Conclusions:

• The preconception period is an actionable "window of opportunity" for child health promotion.
• Integrating preconception care enhances reproductive medicine.
• It is essential for optimizing long-term health for both mother and child.