Keywords
Women's Health
Health Promotion
Primary Health Care
Reproductive Health
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction: The provision of preconception care for women in Primary Health Care Units is a key strategy for promoting maternal and child health.
Objective: To describe the provision of preconception care actions to women of reproductive age receiving care in Primary Health Care Units in the eastern region of São Paulo.
Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted with 464 women aged 18 to 49 years who received care at eight Primary Health Care Units in the Itaim Paulista district. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews, addressing sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive history, and preconception care actions, including assessment of reproductive intention, counseling, and folic acid prescription.
Results: A socioeconomically vulnerable profile predominated, characterized by low educational level and limited formal employment. Most participants had experienced at least one pregnancy (mean of 2.3 pregnancies). Only about 20% reported having been asked about their intention to become pregnant. Few received counseling or folic acid prescription before conception. Although folic acid use during pregnancy was high, its use in the preconception period was rare.
Conclusion: A low provision of preconception care was observed in Primary Health Care Units, with gaps in the assessment of reproductive intention and in preventive actions prior to pregnancy. Strengthening these actions in Primary Health Care is essential to reduce inequities and improve maternal and perinatal outcomes.
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