Healthier women, healthier reproductive outcomes: recommendations for the routine care of all women of reproductive age

Abstract

By addressing the reproductive intentions and contraceptive practices and needs of every patient, providers may be able to decrease women's chances of experiencing unintended pregnancies and support women in achieving planned and well-timed pregnancies. By addressing the health promotion needs of every patient and examining and addressing her health profile for reproductive risks, irrespective of her desires for pregnancy, it is likely that more women will enter pregnancy with high levels of preconception wellness and that healthier women and healthier pregnancies and infants will result. The importance of the integration of reproductive planning and health promotion into women's routine healthcare is further emphasized when the potentially far-reaching effects of reproductive outcomes (such as unintended pregnancies, adverse pregnancy outcomes, pregnancy complications, and sexually transmitted infections) on women's health, well-being, and life circumstances are considered.