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Abed Alah M. Unlocking the Path to Healthier Families: The Untapped Potential of Men's Preconception Health. JOURNAL OF PREVENTION (2022) 2024; 45:1-8. [PMID: 38017293 PMCID: PMC10844380 DOI: 10.1007/s10935-023-00762-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
This debate paper explores the necessity of introducing a comprehensive primary care model for men's preconception health. It highlights the importance of a holistic approach that includes risk assessment, health promotion, and clinical and psychological interventions. Despite the current limited focus on male preconception health in primary care, there is evidence suggesting a growing awareness among men about the importance of optimizing their health before conception. The paper stresses the importance of such a model in addressing various aspects of men's well-being, family dynamics, and overall reproductive health outcomes. It also acknowledges potential limitations and considerations related to implementing this crucial healthcare approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muna Abed Alah
- Community Medicine Department, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
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2
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Kimmins S, Anderson RA, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Catford SR, De Jonge CJ, Delbes G, Eisenberg ML, Garrido N, Houston BJ, Jørgensen N, Krausz C, Lismer A, McLachlan RI, Minhas S, Moss T, Pacey A, Priskorn L, Schlatt S, Trasler J, Trasande L, Tüttelmann F, Vazquez-Levin MH, Veltman JA, Zhang F, O'Bryan MK. Frequency, morbidity and equity - the case for increased research on male fertility. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:102-124. [PMID: 37828407 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00820-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Currently, most men with infertility cannot be given an aetiology, which reflects a lack of knowledge around gamete production and how it is affected by genetics and the environment. A failure to recognize the burden of male infertility and its potential as a biomarker for systemic illness exists. The absence of such knowledge results in patients generally being treated as a uniform group, for whom the strategy is to bypass the causality using medically assisted reproduction (MAR) techniques. In doing so, opportunities to prevent co-morbidity are missed and the burden of MAR is shifted to the woman. To advance understanding of men's reproductive health, longitudinal and multi-national centres for data and sample collection are essential. Such programmes must enable an integrated view of the consequences of genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors on fertility and offspring health. Definition and possible amelioration of the consequences of MAR for conceived children are needed. Inherent in this statement is the necessity to promote fertility restoration and/or use the least invasive MAR strategy available. To achieve this aim, protocols must be rigorously tested and the move towards personalized medicine encouraged. Equally, education of the public, governments and clinicians on the frequency and consequences of infertility is needed. Health options, including male contraceptives, must be expanded, and the opportunities encompassed in such investment understood. The pressing questions related to male reproductive health, spanning the spectrum of andrology are identified in the Expert Recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Sarah R Catford
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Geraldine Delbes
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Sante Biotechnologie, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, University Hospital of Careggi Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ariane Lismer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Imperial, London, UK
| | - Tim Moss
- Healthy Male and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allan Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Departments of Paediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards, Department of Paediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mónica Hebe Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina, Fundación IBYME, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joris A Veltman
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
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Steel A, Gibson H, Adams J, Schoenaker D. What preconception health services would the public find when searching the internet in Australia?: results from a simulated internet-search study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:93. [PMID: 38233803 PMCID: PMC10795199 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10559-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Australian preventive health strategy outlines the importance of preconception health in improving health in the community, across multiple generations and places primary and community healthcare services as a central pillar to effective preconception care. However, there is no national implementation plan to see preconception care proactively offered in healthcare settings in Australia. Instead, there is evidence that most women search the internet for information about pregnancy planning and preparation. In response, this study explores the availability and characteristics of health services found by searching for preconception care online in Australia. METHOD Simulated Google searches were conducted using search terms 'preconception' and the name of a city/town with a population > 50,000. Related terms, 'fertility' and 'pregnancy' were also searched. Characteristics of the health services and the information available on relevant websites were extracted and reported descriptively. RESULTS The searches identified 831 website links, including 430 websites for health services. The health services were most often located in cities/towns with populations equal to or less than 200 000 (54.2%), and housing multiple health professionals (69.8%) including a specialist doctor (66.5%), nurse (20.9%), psychologist/counsellor (2.0%) and/or naturopath (13.0%). All the health services identified online explicitly mentioned women among their target populations, while 69.1% (n = 297) also referred to providing services for men or partners. More than one third of websites included blogs (36.9%) while external links were included in 10.8% of the online sites. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a preliminary examination of health services that may be found through internet-based searching by Australian consumers seeking health advice or support prior to becoming pregnant. Our descriptive results suggest couples may find a variety of health professionals when seeking health services for preconception care. Future research involving co-design of search terms with consumers, ongoing monitoring of health services and ensuring access to meaningful, and accurate information found through internet-searching are all necessary to ensure people of reproductive age are able to access the preconception health information and care they need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie Steel
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia.
| | - Harriet Gibson
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Jon Adams
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Danielle Schoenaker
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
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Giallo R, Wynter K, McMahon G, Seymour M, Fogarty A, Cooklin A, Leach L, Francis LM, Duursma E, Macdonald JA. Preconception factors associated with postnatal mental health and suicidality among first-time fathers: results from an Australian Longitudinal Study of Men's Health. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2023; 58:1153-1160. [PMID: 36708400 PMCID: PMC10366277 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02421-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Prospective evidence about men at risk of postnatal difficulties is rare-particularly for postpartum suicidal ideation. This study aimed to determine the extent to which first-time fathers reported depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation and behaviours in the first postnatal year, and to identify preconception risk factors for postnatal mental health difficulties. METHODS Secondary analysis of data from The Ten to Men Study-Australia's population-based prospective study of men's health was conducted. Participants were 205 men who became first-time fathers in the 12 months prior to wave 2 (2015/16). Regression analyses were used to ascertain preconception (mental and physical health, lifestyle) and demographic factors associated with postnatal depressive symptoms. RESULTS Postnatally, 8.3% of fathers reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms, 5% had suicidal thoughts, 3% had plans, and less than 1% had attempted suicide. Preconception depressive symptoms was the only factor significantly associated with postnatal depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION The transition into fatherhood is marked with significant psychological distress for some men. These results suggest that mental health screening and support in the preconception period is crucial to supporting the mental health of new fathers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Giallo
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.
| | - Karen Wynter
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety, School of Nursing and Midwifery-Western Health Partnership, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Grace McMahon
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | | | - Alison Fogarty
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | | | - Liana Leach
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Lauren M Francis
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | | | - Jacqui A Macdonald
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Carter T, Schoenaker D, Adams J, Steel A. Paternal preconception modifiable risk factors for adverse pregnancy and offspring outcomes: a review of contemporary evidence from observational studies. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:509. [PMID: 36927694 PMCID: PMC10022288 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15335-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The preconception period represents transgenerational opportunities to optimize modifiable risk factors associated with both short and long-term adverse health outcomes for women, men, and children. As such, preconception care is recommended to couples during this time to enable them to optimise their health in preparation for pregnancy. Historically, preconception research predominately focuses on maternal modifiable risks and health behaviours associated with pregnancy and offspring outcomes; limited attention has been given to inform paternal preconception health risks and outcomes. This systematic review aims to advance paternal preconception research by synthesising the current evidence on modifiable paternal preconception health behaviours and risk factors to identify associations with pregnancy and/or offspring outcomes. METHODS Medline, Embase, Maternity and Infant care, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, and ISI Proceedings were searched on the 5th of January 2023, a date limit was set [2012-2023] in each database. A Google Scholar search was also conducted identifying all other relevant papers. Studies were included if they were observational, reporting associations of modifiable risk factors in the preconception period among males (e.g., identified as reproductive partners of pregnant women and/or fathers of offspring for which outcomes were reported) with adverse pregnancy and offspring outcomes. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Exposure and outcome heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis, and results were summarised in tables. RESULTS This review identified 56 cohort and nine case control studies. Studies reported on a range of risk factors and/or health behaviours including paternal body composition (n = 25), alcohol intake (n = 6), cannabis use (n = 5), physical activity (n = 2), smoking (n = 20), stress (n = 3) and nutrition (n = 13). Outcomes included fecundability, IVF/ISCI live birth, offspring weight, body composition/BMI, asthma, lung function, leukemia, preterm birth, and behavioural issues. Despite the limited number of studies and substantial heterogeneity in reporting, results of studies assessed as good quality showed that paternal smoking may increase the risk of birth defects and higher paternal BMI was associated with higher offspring birthweight. CONCLUSION The current evidence demonstrates a role of paternal preconception health in influencing outcomes related to pregnancy success and offspring health. The evidence is however limited and heterogenous, and further high-quality research is needed to inform clinical preconception care guidelines to support men and couples to prepare for a health pregnancy and child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Carter
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia.
| | - Danielle Schoenaker
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Jon Adams
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia
| | - Amie Steel
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia
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Anakwe A, BeLue R, Xian H, Xaverius P. Men's Preconception Health and Fertility Intentions: A Latent Class Analysis Approach. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221135764. [PMID: 36373425 PMCID: PMC9663665 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221135764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Men's pregnancy intention is associated with a host of positive outcomes for families, yet this topic remains understudied. Because unintended pregnancies are more likely to occur at suboptimal parental health, this study aimed to examine the extent to which men improve their preconception health in the context of future fertility planning. This study used pooled data from the 2011-2019 National Survey of Family Growth for a final sample size of 10,223. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify distinct classes of men's preconception health. Eight preconception health risk factors were used to determine class membership. A classify-analyze approach was used to create the preconception health phenotype (PhP) exposure variable. The outcome of interest was men's fertility intentions. Multinomial regression models were used to examine the association between the exposure and the outcome. Three unique PhPs were identified (lowest risk, substance users, and sexual risk-takers) from the LCA model. Men in the substance users' group (22.9%) were characterized by high-risk alcohol use and drug use, while sexual risk-takers (8.1%) were characterized by having multiple sexual partners. Belonging in the phenotypes of substance users or sexual risk-takers was associated with increased odds for definite no fertility intention than definite yes intentions (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.18, 1.84] and aOR: 1.51, 95% CI: [1.13, 2.01], respectively). Results provide new insights on how preconception health can be measured and fills a knowledge gap on its relationship to men's future fertility planning. Findings can be applied to preconception care intervention frameworks, and guide family planning interventions and contraceptive counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adaobi Anakwe
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA,Department of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA,Adaobi Anakwe, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, 3545 Lafayette Avenue, Room 403, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
| | - Rhonda BeLue
- Department of Health Management and Policy, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA,College for Health, Community and Policy, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Hong Xian
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Pamela Xaverius
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA,University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Dorney E, Boyle JA, Walker R, Hammarberg K, Musgrave L, Schoenaker D, Jack B, Black KI. A Systematic Review of Clinical Guidelines for Preconception Care. Semin Reprod Med 2022; 40:157-169. [PMID: 35576970 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1748190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Preconception care (PCC) involves a wide-ranging set of interventions to optimize health prior to pregnancy. These interventions seek to enhance conception rates, pregnancy outcomes, childhood health, and the health of future generations. To assist health care providers to exercise high-quality clinical care in this domain, clinical practice guidelines from a range of settings have been published. This systematic review sought to identify existing freely accessible international guidelines, assess these in terms of their quality using the AGREE II tool, and assess the summary recommendations and the evidence level on which they are based. We identified 11 guidelines that focused on PCC. Ten of these were classified as moderate quality (scores ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 out of 7) and only one was classified as very high quality, scoring 6.5. The levels of evidence for recommendations ranged from the lowest possible level of evidence (III) to the highest (I-a): the highest quality evidence available is for folic acid supplementation to reduce risk of neural tube defects and the role of antiviral medication to prevent HIV transmission. This systematic review identified that high-quality guidelines on PCC are lacking and that few domains of PCC recommendations are supported by high-quality evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwina Dorney
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Boyle
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ruth Walker
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Loretta Musgrave
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Danielle Schoenaker
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Brian Jack
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsten I Black
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Hammarberg K, Stocker R, Romero L, Fisher J. Pregnancy planning health information and service needs of women with chronic non-communicable conditions: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:236. [PMID: 35317730 PMCID: PMC8941766 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04498-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preparing for pregnancy and being in the best possible health before conception improves reproductive outcomes. For women living with a chronic non-communicable disease (NCD), pregnancy planning is essential to allow optimal disease control in preparation for pregnancy. Aim The aim was to review the literature relating to the pregnancy planning health information and service needs of women with NCDs. Method The MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Emcare (Ovid), PsycINFO (Ovid), CINAHL and Scopus databases were searched. Studies were included if they were published in peer-reviewed English language journals between January 2010 and June 2020 and reported on the pregnancy planning health information and service needs of women with rheumatic diseases, asthma, cystic fibrosis, depression and/or anxiety, type 1 diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, or multiple sclerosis. Risk of bias was assessed using QualSyst. The characteristics of the studies were tabulated and summarised. Key findings of the included studies were analysed thematically using an inductive approach, where the study findings determined the themes. Findings are reported in a narrative synthesis. Results The database searches yielded 8291 results, of which 4304 remained after duplicates were removed. After abstract screening 104 full-text papers were reviewed. Of these 15 met inclusion criteria and were included in analysis. The narrative synthesis of the included studies revealed six themes: ‘Women with chronic conditions have unmet preconception health information needs’, ‘Women with chronic conditions want personalised preconception health information’, ‘Preferred sources of preconception health information’, ‘Learning from the experiences of other women’, ‘Improving preconception health discussions with health care professionals’, and ‘Women want holistic care’. These themes were consistent across all studies, highlighting the similarity of experiences and needs of women with different chronic conditions. Conclusion To improve pregnancy outcomes for women living with NCDs, health care providers need to ask women of reproductive age proactively and routinely about their pregnancy intentions and provide them with personalised advice on how to avoid unplanned pregnancy and be in optimal health when they wish to conceive. PROSPERO registration number CRD42020176308. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04498-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Ruby Stocker
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lorena Romero
- The Ian Potter Library, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jane Fisher
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Dorney E, Millard J, Hammarberg K, Griffin K, Gordon A, McGeechan K, Black KI. Australian primary health care nurses. Aust J Prim Health 2021; 28:63-68. [PMID: 34847988 DOI: 10.1071/py21104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Preconception care (PCC) entails counselling and interventions to optimise health before pregnancy. Barriers to this service delivery include access and time. Primary healthcare nurses (PHCNs) are uniquely placed to deliver PCC. The aim of this study was to understand PHCNs' knowledge, practice and attitudes to PCC. A cross-sectional study was performed of a convenience sample of PHCNs in Australia who were seeing people of reproductive age. Recruitment was via the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) electronic communication platforms. The 18-item, online, anonymous survey captured demographics, as well as PCC knowledge, practices and attitudes. Descriptive statistics were used to describe our findings. In all, 152 completed surveys were received. Of all respondents, 74% stated they discuss PCC in their practice, although only 13% do so routinely. Of these, more preconception discussions are held with women than with men. In total, 95% of respondents identified at least one barrier to delivery of PCC, with lack of time and knowledge being the most common. The findings of this study can inform targeted strategies, including education programs and resources, and consideration of incentives to support PHCNs deliver PCC. This study identifies areas for improvement at the individual, organisational and health system levels to enhance the role of PHCNs in PCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Dorney
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; and Corresponding author
| | - J Millard
- Australian Primary Care Nurses Association, Melbourne, Vic. 3000, Australia
| | - K Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | - K Griffin
- Australian Primary Care Nurses Association, Melbourne, Vic. 3000, Australia
| | - A Gordon
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - K McGeechan
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - K I Black
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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10
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Hammarberg K, Stocker R. Evaluation of an online learning module to improve nurses' and midwives' capacity to promote preconception health in primary healthcare settings. Aust J Prim Health 2021; 27:462-466. [PMID: 34645562 DOI: 10.1071/py21026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Optimal parental preconception health improves the likelihood of a successful pregnancy and a healthy child. Although primary healthcare professionals believe that it is within their role to promote preconception health to people of reproductive age, few do this routinely, in part because they lack knowledge on the topic and confidence to discuss it with their patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of a free online learning module to assist nurses and midwives in primary health care to promote preconception health in their practice. A repeat online survey was administered before and after completion of the online learning module. The survey included questions gauging knowledge about and attitudes towards promoting preconception health. In all, 121 nurses/midwives completed the two surveys and the learning module. There were statistically significant improvements in the knowledge scores (from 6.42 to 8.31; P < 0.001) and in the proportion of participants who reported feeling confident in their knowledge about preconception health (from 15% to 53%). Almost all (95%) were satisfied with the duration and content of the learning module. The findings of this study suggest that the learning module is acceptable and improves nurses' and midwives' capacity to promote preconception health in their practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 4, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia; and Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Level 30, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Vic. 3000, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - Ruby Stocker
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 4, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
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11
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Steel A, Carter T. Balancing our gaze on preconception health and care to include men. ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aimed.2021.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Pearson L, Holton S, McLachlan R, Hammarberg K. Australian men's fertility information seeking attitudes and behaviour: A qualitative investigation. SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2021; 29:100621. [PMID: 33894435 DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2021.100621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most women and men want and expect to have children but increasing maternal and paternal ages reduce their ability to achieve this. Most research relating to childbearing has focused on women. The aim of this study was to explore reproductive-aged men's fertility information-seeking attitudes and behaviours. METHODS Focus group discussions were conducted with younger (18-30 years, 3 groups) and older (31-45 years, 3 groups) men, residing in urban, peri-urban or rural settings in Victoria, Australia. The topics covered included men's fatherhood aspirations and intentions, and their attitudes and behaviours relating to seeking information about fertility. Focus group discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed, and transcripts analyzed thematically. RESULTS Six focus group discussions were conducted with a total of 39 participants. Four key themes were identified: 1. 'No need for fertility-related information'; 2. 'Knowledge and awareness of fertility'; 3. 'Fertility is women's business'; and 4. 'Fertility and manhood'. Fertility and fertility information seeking was perceived by many participants as women's domain. While men did not seek information about fertility unless they experienced fertility difficulties, they reported learning about fertility through the lived experiences of others, predominantly family and friends who experienced infertility. CONCLUSION Fertility-related health promotion initiatives and reproductive health information targeting men are needed to encourage men to be active participants in reproductive decision making to optimize the chance of both women and men achieving their parenthood goals. Narrative health messages may be a successful way to convey fertility information to men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Pearson
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 4/553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 3004, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sara Holton
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 4/553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 3004, Victoria, Australia; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Geelong Waterfront Campus, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong 3220, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Robert McLachlan
- Healthy Male, Melbourne, Vic 3004, Australia; Monash IVF Group Pty Ltd, Richmond 3121, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 4/553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 3004, Victoria, Australia; Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Level 30/570 Bourke Street Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
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Gender Differences in Factors Influencing Self-Efficacy Toward Pregnancy Planning among College Students in Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17103735. [PMID: 32466212 PMCID: PMC7277331 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine factors influencing college students' self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning by gender using the health belief model (HBM). Utilizing a comparative descriptive design, a total of 819 college students were recruited. A survey was administered to gather information on health beliefs related to pregnancy planning, self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning, fertility knowledge, and general characteristics. The main variables were compared by gender. The factors influencing self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning were identified using hierarchical regression analysis. Female students (476) had lower self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning than male students (343). The significant factors influencing self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning in female students were: depression (β = -0.09, p = 0.030), fertility knowledge (β = 0.08, p = 0.025), barriers (β = -0.57, p < 0.001), and cues to action (β = 0.16, p < 0.001), whereas the corresponding factors in male students were benefits (β = 0.12, p = 0.020), barriers (β = -0.44, p < 0.001), and cues to action (β = 0.16, p = 0.001). The present study confirmed the suitability of the HBM as a conceptual framework for identifying factors influencing self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning. Based on the findings of this study, gender-based similarities and differences in factors influencing self-efficacy should be considered when taking steps to promote self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning among college students.
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Hammarberg K, Hassard J, de Silva R, Johnson L. Acceptability of screening for pregnancy intention in general practice: a population survey of people of reproductive age. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:40. [PMID: 32079524 PMCID: PMC7031940 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01110-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Optimal parental preconception health benefits reproductive outcomes. However, preconception health promotion is not routinely offered in primary health care settings to people of reproductive age. The aim was to gauge the planned preconception health behaviours and attitudes towards being asked about pregnancy intention by a general practitioner (GP) among people of reproductive age in Australia. Method The research was conducted on a single wave of Australia’s first and only probability-based online panel, Life in Australia™. Members of the Life in Australia™ panel are Australian residents aged 18 years or over. All active members between the ages of 18 and 45 years were eligible to participate. Eligible panel members were invited to complete a survey about fertility and childbearing. Data were collected from 18 February to 4 March 2019. Results In all 965 female and male members of Life in Australia™ aged between 18 and 45 years were invited to complete the survey. Of these, 716 (74.2%) agreed. Most respondents indicated that if they were planning to have a child they would try to optimise their preconception health by adopting a healthier diet (80%), seeing a GP for a health check-up (78%), reducing alcohol consumption (78% of those consuming alcohol), getting fitter (73%), and stopping smoking (70% of smokers). Three in four (74%) stated that they would not mind if their GP asked them about their pregnancy intentions. Conclusion Findings suggests that routinely asking people of reproductive age about their pregnancy intentions and advising those who are planning pregnancy about what they can do to ensure optimal preconception health would be acceptable to most people and may improve reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Hammarberg
- Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Level 30, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 3000, Australia. .,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 4, 553 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, 3004, Australia.
| | - Julie Hassard
- Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Level 30, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Renee de Silva
- Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Level 30, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Louise Johnson
- Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Level 30, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
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