The Prepreg Network – An international research network within preconception health and care.

Preconception care is important for screening, prevention and management of risk factors that affect pregnancy outcomes and the future health of families. The PrePreg Network was formed of researchers and clinicians in October 2010 as a reaction to the need for a network undertaking preconception care research across Europe. Aims are to increase health promoting behavior in relation to pregnancy planning and the understanding of the bio-psychosocial, cultural and economic factors affecting pre-pregnancy care. Participating countries are currently: Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Great Britain, The Netherlands, Belgium, France, Italy, Latvia and Ukraine. Several research projects have been initiated, such as (i) a baseline comparison of current policies, guidelines and recommendations for pre-pregnancy care in Europe, (ii) a study about health, lifestyle habits and maternal wellbeing both prior to conception and during and after pregnancy and (iii) a study investigating the attitudes towards pregnancy planning and fertility, and evaluation of the so called Reproductive Life Plan as a tool for reproductive health. We believe that the PrePreg Network will have a substantial impact within the field of Preconception Health and Care. We see the 2nd European Congress on Preconception Care and Health as an opportunity to present the PrePreg Network, its aims and ongoing projects for a vast number of professionals within the field.