Defining preconception: exploring the concept of a preconception population.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Public Health Research
• Population Science

Background:

• Preconception health significantly influences offspring well-being.
• A clear definition of the preconception population is currently lacking.
• Existing literature lacks a defined concept and attributes for the preconception population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the concept and attributes of the preconception population using existing literature.
• To identify characteristics and research recruitment methods for the preconception population.
• To generate an attribute-based working definition of the preconception population.

Main Methods:

• A rapid review of current literature using CINAHL and 'pre-pregnancy care' subject heading (Stage 1).
• Data extraction included definitions, inclusion/exclusion criteria, participant characteristics, and recruitment methods.
• Concept analysis of 'preconception population' using Walker and Avant's framework after a wider literature search (Stage 2).

Main Results:

• Twenty-three papers from Stage 1 revealed 'preconception' was explicitly defined in only one study.
• Twelve studies required participants to be planning a pregnancy.
• Stage 2 identified four key perspectives: intentional, potential, public health, and life course.

Conclusions:

• Adopting these perspectives can improve the accurate definition, identification, and recruitment of preconception populations.
• This framework facilitates the development of appropriately broad or tailored interventions based on population needs.
• Improved research and interventions for preconception men and women enhance the well-being of future generations.