Preconception care practices in Nigeria: a descriptive qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Reproductive Health
• Maternal Health

Background:

• Preconception care is vital for women of reproductive age to address conditions impacting pregnancy outcomes.
• Routine preconception care services are lacking in Nigeria despite recognized need.
• This study investigates existing practices to inform formalization within maternal and child health services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore current preconception care practices in Nigeria.
• To identify opportunities for integrating existing services into formal healthcare.
• To provide recommendations for structuring and formalizing preconception care.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive qualitative study utilizing 41 in-depth interviews and 10 focus group discussions.
• Involved diverse stakeholders: community members, leaders, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.
• Thematic analysis was performed using MAXQDA 2018.

Main Results:

• No defined preconception care services, structures, or guidelines exist within the Nigerian healthcare system.
• Services are provided ad-hoc, driven by healthcare worker perception or client demand, including information, education, counseling, and medical check-ups.
• Non-healthcare practices like premarital counseling and school-based education offer relevant preconception support.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need to establish structure and guidelines for preconception care services in Nigeria.
• Formalization should streamline existing health system provisions and integrate relevant non-healthcare practices.
• This will enhance safe motherhood and positive pregnancy outcomes through comprehensive preconception support.