To explore public understanding and awareness of preconception health, we surveyed 1051 women living in the UK in 2019. We also wanted to identify the best language for messaging in public campaigns.

Very few women preferred the term ‘Preconception’ to describe the period before conception or starting a family. Most women agreed that the period before pregnancy was a good chance to be healthier and that both mother and father’s health before pregnancy were important for future children (see figure).

A key finding was that NHS information and healthcare professionals such as midwives, nurses, health visitors and GPs were considered more trustworthy than apps, online forums or private companies.