Optimizing preconception health in women of reproductive age.

There is a growing realization that efforts to optimize the health of women and reduce the risk of adverse maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes during pregnancy should commence in the preconception period. The preconception period (prior to or between pregnancies) provides an opportune time to address reproductive intentions and promote and support wellbeing and healthy behavior change regardless of pregnancy intention. Research over the last 30 years has explored the influence of a range of preconception risk factors and determinants of health on pregnancy and maternal and neonatal outcomes including: pregnancy planning, diet and micronutrient supplementation, physical activity, weight, smoking, recreational drug and alcohol use, mental health, oral hygiene, and chronic health and medical conditions.