We have built the evidence, tools and policy influence to transform understanding of the importance of preconception health and to develop models of care to support it. 

Key facts

• Our research shows that parents' nutrition and lifestyle before they get pregnant shape the health of their future children.

• We created England's first national framework for monitoring preconception health, now informing government policy and NHS practice in this previously neglected area.

A window of opportunity

The time before pregnancy is known as 'preconception'. It is an important window that can help determine the future health and wellbeing of parents and children.

Poor health before pregnancy is a major cause of pregnancy complications, long-term health problems in children, and widening health inequalities, but its importance was not previously recognised.

As such, services have lacked coordinated data, tools and policy guidance.

Led by Professor Keith Godfrey, we have gathered robust evidence on how preconception health can support health in the next generation. Work led by Dr Danielle Schoenaker has since built practical tools to reshape how health systems approach preconception care.

Communication is key

We have developed recommendations for talking about preconception health more clearly.

These include using simple terms such as preparation for pregnancy and parenthood, and language that's positive and encouraging, rather than focusing on risks. We also recommended language that includes both partners.

These recommendations have been used by national campaigns including the NHS #ReadyforPregnancy campaign and the Tommy’s Planning for Pregnancy tool.

The report card

The first national framework and "report card" for preconception health in England was developed by our researchers, including Dr Schoenaker and Professor Nisreen Alwan.

The report card monitors several factors which impact preconception health, such as taking a folic acid supplement before pregnancy, smoking and healthy weight.

The UK government and the NHS have officially adopted the report card, so they can keep track of the nation's pre-pregnancy health over time, including differences between groups of people.

Dr Danielle Schoenaker is now co-leading an international study to find out how best to measure and monitor preconception health globally, so progress in optimising preconception health in England can be compared with other countries.

Influencing policy

Our researchers and their research have directly influenced policy and guidance.

We have contributed to the latest NICE maternal and child nutrition guidelines and the development of a UK Preconception Care Strategy.

We have led the development of a leaflet that provides practical guidance for healthcare professionals to provide preconception care which has been embedded in NICE guidance.

Our researchers are involved in the NHS England Maternity and Neonatal Programme Equity, Equality and Personalised Care Steering Group, and have leadership roles in the UK Preconception Partnership, formed to improve preparation for pregnancy and parenthood across all four nations of the UK.

National and local bodies, including Integrated Care Boards, are now using our preconception tools to guide commissioning, target interventions and design campaigns.

Our work is also recognised by the World Health Organisation and has informed UNICEF programmes.