CHAPTER 3 - Prepregnancy services for women with social needs

Summary

Prepregnancy care for women with social needs should enable women to protect and control their fertility and to ensure any pregnancies are intended and optimally timed for good medical and social outcomes. In 2006, the USA published recommendations and guidelines on preconception care for all women, but these guidelines do not specifically address the needs of socially disadvantaged women. All reproductive healthcare professionals must be trained and must be able to take a full social history in both the prepregnancy and maternity setting. Provision of reproductive health care, including prepregnancy care, for women with social problems should be incorporated into strategic planning and reflected in staffing levels and skill mix. Complementary services including information, education and social and health care should be provided for socially disadvantaged men and partners of socially disadvantaged women. Development of routine service provision is a priority and such services should be subject to audit.