Interpregnancy Care: An Opportunity to Improve Women's Health and Reduce the Risk of Maternal Morbidity and Mortality

Abstract

Interpregnancy care is the health care provided to a woman during the postpartum and preconception periods between pregnancies. Half of maternal deaths occur postpartum and cardiometabolic complications of pregnancy increase the risk for maternal morbidity and mortality and development of chronic conditions. By improving women's health between and beyond pregnancies, interpregnancy care has the potential to improve pregnancy outcomes and women's long-term health. This practice brief report summarizes evidence regarding the impact of interpregnancy care on pregnancy and long-term health outcomes for women with hypertension, diabetes, substance use, and mental health disorders. Existing evidence is limited but demonstrates that the utilization of interventions during this period may result in improved health outcomes. Additional research efforts are needed to better understand the impact of interpregnancy care on women's health throughout the life course.