Optimizing interconception care: Rationale for the IMPLICIT model

Semin Perinatol. 2020 Jun;44(4):151247. doi: 10.1016/j.semperi.2020.151247. Epub 2020 Mar 14.

Abstract

Despite traditional prenatal interventions, the incidence of low birth weight and prematurity in the United States have not significantly decreased. Interconception care for women between pregnancies has been proposed as a method of improving various perinatal outcomes. Although broadly advocated by national groups, interconception care (ICC) has not been widely implemented. We describe best practices for an ICC model based on screening mothers for tobacco use, depression, folic acid intake, and inter-pregnancy interval at well child visits. Because of the model's flexibility, sites can readily customize implementation by incorporating the questions directly into existing workflows and using local service providers already working in maternal-child health. This model has demonstrated promising results and ease of implementation thus far, and offers great potential for improved perinatal outcomes and promotion of health equity.

Keywords: Birth Outcome; Interconception; Maternal Child Health; Preconception; Preterm Birth.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Birth Intervals
  • Depression / diagnosis
  • Depression / therapy
  • Female
  • Folic Acid / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Infant, Low Birth Weight
  • Mass Screening
  • Maternal-Child Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Neural Tube Defects / prevention & control
  • Preconception Care / organization & administration*
  • Pregnancy
  • Premature Birth / prevention & control*
  • Risk Reduction Behavior
  • Tobacco Use / epidemiology
  • Tobacco Use / therapy
  • Vitamin B Complex / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Folic Acid