Preconception

Improving health before conception

Preconception health promotion helps both women and men to prepare for pregnancy by improving their health prior to conception. It includes health practices related to safeguarding fertility, preparing for pregnancy, and identifying and addressing risk factors. It also enhances pregnancy outcomes by optimizing health in the critical first weeks of pregnancy, before many women know they are pregnant.

Preconception health strategies encourage women and men to actively plan their pregnancies, seek out health information and advice, and make health changes prior to conception.

Many people understand that a woman's health during pregnancy can impact the health of her unborn baby, but are less aware of the importance of good health for both women and men before conception.

Health Nexus resources:

	Men’s Information – How to Build a Healthy Baby (PDF)
	Preconception Health: Public Health Initiatives in Ontario (PDF)
	Preconception Health: Awareness and Behaviours in Ontario (PDF)
	Preconception Health: Physician Practices in Ontario (PDF)
	The Sacred Journey from Preconception to Parenting for First Nations Families in Ontario (PDF)
	Giving Birth in a New Land – A guide for women new to Canada and their families (PDF)
	Health before pregnancy Workbook (PDF)