Positive outcomes for both parents and babies begin long before the baby is born.
To improve the health of all babies and children, it's important to think about care and support for healthy conception and pregnancy for everyone of reproductive age, no matter their gender, income, or age.
For women and those not actively preventing pregnancy, poor health habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, or unmanaged medical conditions can cause complications if they become pregnant unexpectedly.
Raising awareness of these risks helps encourage people to take steps to prevent negative outcomes.
Forty-five percent of pregnancies and one-third of births are unplanned or come with mixed emotions, though most pregnancies that reach full term still result in positive outcomes.
A planned pregnancy is usually healthier than an unplanned one because it gives parents time to prepare, make healthier lifestyle changes, and improve preconception health. This preparation can lower the risk of negative health outcomes for both the parent and the baby.
Changing behaviours like quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight can lead to better overall health outcomes for both the parent and their child.
Raising awareness about preconception health with people who are unsure about becoming pregnant is a responsible approach.
It helps them to understand the importance of maintaining good health, reduces the risks for potential unplanned pregnancies, and allows them to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and overall well-being.
Even if pregnancy is not a definite plan, being prepared can make a significant difference in health outcomes.