Comment on ‘Sexual and reproductive health clinical consultations: preconception care

Hough et al have discussed several important components of preconception care (PCC) that may be addressed during sexual and reproductive health (SRH) clinical consultations.1 PCC is widely recognised as necessary for minimising adverse pregnancy, birth and childhood outcomes.2 Due to the lack of a coordinated PCC strategy in the UK, PCC assessments are often done on an infrequent, opportunistic basis.3 While the scenario about Sofia in the article by Hough et al described the ideal candidate for a PCC consultation, the scenario does not take into consideration the current landscape of contraception usage, constraints on the National Health Service (NHS), the impact of care-seeking behaviours, and the needs of minority populations.

As detailed by Hough et al, appointments with healthcare professionals (HCPs) at SRH clinics and general practices pertaining to contraceptive cessation may be appropriate for discussions about pregnancy intentions and preconception health needs. We…

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