The Impact of Preconception Care on Maternal and fetal Health Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Preconception care is an important strategy that can reduce different modifiable risks. However, its utilization remains limited, and there is a need to determine its impacts on maternal and fetal outcomes in primary-care populations.

 Aim: This study examined the impact of preconception care on maternal and fetal health outcomes among women of reproductive age and identified factors associated with PCC utilization. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in Jordan. A convenience sample of 382 women aged 18–49 years was included in the study. Data collection was done using an electronic, structured questionnaire comprised of socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of PCC, utilization of PCC, and maternal and fetal outcomes. SPSS version 27 was used for data analysis, with descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression, and significance set at p < .05.

Results: Participants had high knowledge of preconception care (80.40 ± 18.60%), with 74.1% of participants having previously heard of preconception care. 58.9% had received preconception care before their most recent pregnancy. Most cited barriers to utilization of preconception care among non-users were lack of awareness (54.8%) and the perception that PCC was unnecessary (36.3%). Significant lower rates of anemia, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, low birth weight, congenital anomalies, and NICU admission were reported among women who received preconception care compared to women who did not (all p < .05). After adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics,  receipt of PCC was the strongest independent predictor of maternal complications (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.21–0.55) and adverse fetal outcomes (AOR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.19–0.52). PCC utilization was significantly predicted by higher education, employment, urban residence, and higher household income.

 Conclusion: Preconception care utilization was significantly associated with better maternal and fetal health outcomes in this population. However, a significant number of women did not utilize these services due to limited awareness. Therefore, strengthening PCC integration into primary healthcare, expanding counseling, and addressing socioeconomic barriers to access could be important in reducing preventable maternal and neonatal complications.