Strengthening Premarital and Preconception Education as an Effort to Increase Healthy Pregnancy Readiness in Midwifery Care

Dzul  Istiqomah Hasyim

Dzul Istiqomah Hasyim Universitas Muhammadiyah Pringsewu

Keywords: Premarital care, Preconception health, Midwifery care, Maternal health, Reproductive health

Abstract

Purpose: This article aims to analyze the importance of premarital and preconception health education within midwifery care as an early strategy to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce preventable pregnancy risks.

Literature Review: The literature review highlights persistent maternal health challenges, including high prevalence of anemia among women of reproductive age, unplanned pregnancies, and limited utilization of preconception services. National and international studies indicate that inadequate knowledge before conception contributes significantly to high-risk pregnancies and maternal complications.

Methodology: This study employed a descriptive qualitative literature review design. Scientific articles, national reports, and international guidelines published within the last ten years were collected from reputable databases. Selected literature was analyzed thematically to identify patterns related to premarital and preconception education, midwifery roles, and maternal health outcomes.

Results: The review findings demonstrate that structured premarital and preconception education significantly improves women’s knowledge, nutritional readiness, anemia prevention behaviors, and early detection of pregnancy risks. Studies consistently report positive associations between preconception counseling and reduced incidence of high-risk pregnancies.

Conclusions: Premarital and preconception care is a critical component of comprehensive midwifery services and should be strengthened as part of maternal health promotion strategies.

Recommendations: Midwives are encouraged to integrate systematic premarital and preconception education into routine services through community-based and facility-based approaches.

Additional Data: National reports indicate that maternal mortality and anemia prevalence remain public health priorities, emphasizing the urgency of early preventive interventions before pregnancy.

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