Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2021
Abstract
Preconception care in the United States has been seen by ACOG and the CDC as the next improvement in maternal and neonatal health. Pregnancies that begin healthier are at less risk for maternal complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension disorders of pregnancy, as well as neonatal complications such as impaired uterine growth, placental insufficiencies, and need for neonatal care after birth. It is recommended that women be screened annually for their intended desires for pregnancy, folic acid supplementation, and birth control use, along with medical history and medication use, tobacco use and environmental exposures, screening for depression and intimate partner violence, and body mass index and exercise habits. A review of literature found barriers to preconception care include from both the provider and patient perspectives. Implementation strategies, outcomes, and behavior changes were noted as well in the review of literature. The project created a template for providers to implement during their routine well women exams. The goal is that the template stimulates new conversations about the desires for pregnancies.
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