NHS Lanarkshire is promoting a range of key messages to men and women on pre-conception health, which emphasises the importance of good health prior to becoming pregnant.

Pre-conception health is the mental and physical health and well-being of men and women during their reproductive years, before and between pregnancies.

Ashley Goodfellow, public health specialist for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “All men and women can benefit from good pre-conception health, whether or not they plan to have a baby now or in the future.

“Good pre-conception health is important for increasing your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy pregnancy.

“What many people don’t realise is that it is just as important for men to be healthy too. Things such as alcohol, smoking and obesity all affect male fertility and if a male is healthy it supports his partner to be healthy too.”

With almost half of pregnancies being unplanned, it is important to be aware of the benefits of preparing for pregnancy and what to do if you become pregnant unexpectedly.

NHS Lanarkshire is promoting the following key messages for pre-conception health:

• Practice safe sex to avoid sexually transmitted infections
• Positive mental health and well-being is important for both you and your baby
• Eating well and achieving a health weight
• Women should take a folic acid supplement
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
• Do not use any illegal drugs
• Make sure you and your partner are in a healthy and happy relationship.
• Ensure your immunisations are up to date

Ashley added: “We aim to get these messages out to as many people as we can to ensure that people, who are perhaps planning a pregnancy or may become pregnant, are fully informed about the importance of pre-conception health and are equipped to make informed choices for themselves and their baby.”