before the baby bump

Preconception Health Starts Here

Helping parents prepare for a healthy pregnancy.

Preconception health – the health of a person before pregnancy – offers a valuable opportunity to improve outcomes for parents and their future child/children. It is a time when many people are motivated to make positive changes that can have lasting health benefits.

Introduction & core information

Healthy beginnings start before pregnancy

Supporting healthy behaviours such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and stopping smoking, vaping, alcohol or other drugs can improve fertility and influence the long-term health of the next generation. Managing pre-existing medical conditions, ensuring immunisations are up to date, and considering family genetic history are also key components of preconception care.

Ideally, these changes should begin at least 3 months before trying to conceive. As partners play a strong role in shaping each other’s health behaviours, preconception health conversations should include everyone planning to be a parent, whether in heterosexual and same-sex relationships, to improve health outcomes for all parents and their children.

Health professionals play a key role in starting these conversations and supporting couples to plan for a healthy pregnancy.

About preconception health

  • Why is preconception health important
     

    Many women are motivated to improve their health once they become pregnant. However, there is increasing recognition that pregnancy may be too late to influence many of the critical epigenetic processes that occur before conception, or in the very early stages of pregnancy. This makes the preconception phase a key window for optimising health and wellbeing.

    While many people understand the importance of making healthy changes once pregnant, awareness of the benefits of preconception health is limited. As a result, couples or individuals may not seek support before trying for a baby, reducing opportunities for health education, especially for those experiencing unplanned pregnancies.

    Raising awareness of preconception health, particularly modifiable behaviours, is a small but important step towards improving the health of future generations.

  • Who can support preconception health?
     

    Anyone working with women of child-bearing age and/or their respective partner can play a role in raising awareness of preconception health, supporting positive health behaviour changes, and encouraging engagement with a General Practitioner (GP) for a pre-pregnancy health check.

    Providing credible, evidenced-based preconception advice can be done by health professionals across health, education, and community settings. Research shows that women who receive preconception advice from a trusted health professional are twice as likely to take supplements and improve their diet prior to pregnancy.

    Delivering this advice in a non-stigmatising way helps people feel supported and encouraged to make changes. Recognising and celebrating the healthy behaviours they are already practicing can open the conversation about other changes that could be made. Supporting individuals and couples to make small, sustainable changes using SMART goals can empower them to enhance their health before pregnancy.

  • What is Before the Baby Bump?
     

    Before the Baby Bump describes the time before pregnancy, when a person might be thinking about having a baby, or starting to try for one. It is called preconception.

    Health and Wellbeing Queensland’s ‘Before the Baby Bump’ campaign will aim to improve awareness of preconception health for consumers. The campaign is a pilot running from November 2025 through to April 2026 in the regions of Mackay and Ipswich.

    The campaign will raise awareness of the importance of preconception health and provide consumers with ways to make improvements to their health by improving nutrition and physical activity, and reducing harmful behaviours such as alcohol and smoking.

    The campaign will engage consumers via social media to visit the Before the Baby Bump website for information on preconception care.

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Education & training for health professionals

Evidence-based education on preconception health can improve knowledge and reduce modifiable risk factors among men and women. This information can be effectively delivered in a variety of health and community settings. However, encouraging individuals to engage with a qualified health professional for a comprehensive assessment, personalised advice, and ongoing care is an important part of best practice.

Below are opportunities designed to strengthen your knowledge and confidence in discussing preconception health. You’ll also find practical resources to support meaningful conversations with individuals and couples planning a pregnancy.

Access Community HealthPathways for Preconception Health information for Mackay and West Moreton. The RACGP guidelines for preventive activities in general practice, and the RANZOG pre-pregnancy counselling clinical guides, provide further information for GPs providing preconception care.

Preconception health is important for men and women

Women’s health before conception matters

A woman’s health prior to conception is well known to impact her life-long health, and that of her baby. A preconception checklist can help guide conversations about important preconception health considerations. Information to support women to take simple steps to support their health is also available.

Preconception Checklist for Women

Men’s health matters too

The health of men is often overlooked in preconception care; however, it is important to discuss. A preconception checklist can help guide conversations about important preconception health considerations for men.

Preconception Checklist for Men

For same-sex couples, encouraging positive health behaviours in both partners is important. Partners engaging in positive health behaviours together are more likely to maintain that health behaviour compared to an individual making changes alone.  

Modifiable health behaviours

Nutrition

Supporting women and men to make small changes can have a big impact. Consider these modifiable health behaviours when promoting preconception health:

Nutrition

Smoking or vaping

Physical activity

Alcohol

Engaging with a GP

Recreational drugs

Caffeine

Vaccinations

Sexual health check & cervical screening

Healthy weight

Other factors that impact fertility

Supplements

Clinician’s Guide to the First 2000 Days

Listen to our Podcast

Nutrition

More than 50% of Australian women do not meet the estimated average requirement for iron, iodine, calcium or folate. 

For men’s health, consumption of a ‘western style’ diet high in sugar, fat and processed foods is associated with reduced sperm motility. Diets high in ultra-processed foods, which are often high calorie and low nutrient, are also associated with weight gain in the form of body fat, rather than muscle, which can impact overall health.

To support healthier eating habits, encourage patients to discuss their nutrition, highlighting what they are already doing well and areas they would like to improve.

Healthy and positive nutrition includes:

  • Eating regular meals to ensure adequate energy and regulated blood sugars across the day.
  • Eating 5 serves of vegetables and 2 serves of fruits each day as part of meals, along with snacks if required.
  • Basing main meals and snacks on wholegrains; high-fibre carbohydrates such as oats, wholegrain breads, pasta and rice.
  • Choosing lean sources of protein and ensuring that daily dairy is included
  • Reducing daily or weekly intake of discretionary foods, such as soft drinks, energy drinks, chips, chocolate and deep-fried foods. These are often low in quality nutrients but provide a lot of energy, which can contribute to hormonal imbalances, poor blood sugar control and weight gain, all of which can impact health and fertility.

Healthy diets and positive nutrition are best done with simple swaps, such as:

  • Snacking on fruit, nuts or yoghurt instead of packaged snacks, cakes or crisps.
  • Swapping soft drinks, flavoured waters, bubble teas or sports drinks for tap water, sparkling water, soda water or plain milk.
  • Choosing takeaways that include vegetables: such as stir-fry options, vegetarian pizzas, dahl or vegetable-based curries.
  • Swapping out burger extras such as bacon or fried onion and including additional salad, either in the burger or on the side.
  • Replacing a main meal with an entrée and a side salad when sharing food at a restaurant.
  • Adding legumes to home-cooked, mince-based dishes such as lentils to spaghetti bolognaise or black beans to Mexican foods.
  • Adding 2 tablespoons of 2 different vegetables (hot or salad type) to a dinner plate each night.
  • Eating well does not need to be expensive.
The importance of nutrition in preconception care

Further resources

Supplements

Folic Acid

Women are advised to start taking folic acid supplements 3 months before trying to conceive. These supplements do not need to be combined or taken as part of an expensive antenatal vitamin. Budget-friendly options are just as effective and should be encouraged to keep supplements affordable over time.

Folate is essential for DNA development, cell growth and tissue formation. Taking a folic acid supplement before pregnancy greatly reduces the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. As neural tube defects occur within the first 28 days of pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant, it’s important to start folic acid supplementation prior to conception.

  • Women need folic acid 3 months before trying to conceive, or as soon as they are trying for a baby, and through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Encourage women to look for a supplement that contains at least 400mcg of folic acid.
  • Encourage and support women to eat healthy foods containing folate or fortified with folic acid alongside supplementation (e.g. green leafy vegetables, broccoli, oranges, avocado, or fortified breads and cereals).

Some women may require more folic acid supplementation if they:

  • have a family history, or relative who has had a baby with a
  • neural tube defect
  • have epilepsy
  • take anti-convulsant medication
  • have vitamin B12 deficiency
  • have diabetes
  • are above a healthy weight.

Encourage women seeking advice around folic acid to consult their GP or a Dietitian to discuss their individual needs and support a healthy pregnancy.

Women’s Checklist

Essential preconception health steps for women planning pregnancy

Men’s Checklist

Essential preconception health steps for men supporting conception

Supplements

Information on recommended supplements in preconception.

Further resources

Iodine

Women need 150 mcg of iodine each day. Iodine is an essential vitamin for brain and bone development. Taking iodine in the preconception period supports women’s iodine stores. They should continue to take this for the duration of their pregnancy and once breastfeeding.

Women are advised to start iodine supplements 3 months before trying for a baby. This supplement does not have to be combined or part of an expensive antenatal vitamin. Budget-friendly options are just as effective and should be encouraged to keep supplements affordable over time.

  • Women need 150 mcg of iodine each day. They should continue to take this for the duration of their pregnancy and once breastfeeding.
  • Encourage and support women to eat healthy foods containing iodine alongside supplementation (e.g. fortified bread, seafood, dairy foods).
  • While salt is not recommended for general health, if they are cooking or using salt, encourage them to choose iodised table salt.

Encourage women with pre-existing thyroid conditions to seek advice from their doctor before taking an iodine supplement.

Promoting preconception supplements

Further resources

Smoking or vaping

Quitting smoking tobacco or vaping is one of the most important steps a couple can take to support their own health and the health of their future baby.

Smoking can reduce fertility by affecting sperm and egg quality. During pregnancy, smoking tobacco increases the risk of miscarriage and can limit the nutrients your baby receives, impacting growth and development. Exposure to second-hand smoke also has documented negative effects on a baby’s health, making it valuable for couples to quit together before conception.

The long-term effects of vaping on preconception health are not yet fully understood. Many vapes contain nicotine, even when labelled ‘nicotine-free,’ as well as other harmful or potentially cancer-causing substances. Some vapes also contain compounds similar to those found in paint or heavy-duty cleaning products, which are environmental toxins that should be avoided prior to pregnancy.

Supporting individuals and couples to quit smoking or vaping before conception is an effective way to prioritise health and improve outcomes for their future child.

Quitting smoking tobacco or vaping can improve mood and help manage stress, anxiety and depression. While nicotine withdrawal can temporarily worsen these symptoms, continuing to smoke or vape perpetuates the cycle. Beginning the cessation process before pregnancy allows mental health to be better managed in advance.

When supporting consumers to quit, discuss their previous attempts and recognise that approaches need to be tailored – what might work for one person may not work for another. Individualised support increases the likelihood of successful cessation and long-term health benefits for both parents and their future child.

When supporting consumers, explore what matters most to them beyond preconception health. Motivators could include:

  • Improving overall wellbeing, boosting energy, achieving personal fitness goals
  • Managing stress, setting a healthy example for existing children or family, or protecting them second-hand smoke
  • Saving money

Understanding individual priorities allows you to frame preconception health changes in ways that feel meaningful and achievable, increasing the likelihood of sustained behaviour change.

Encourage consumers to know that every smoke they avoid improves their health and saves them money. It is never too late to quit. Encourage them to talk to their loved ones or a GP to identify what supports might work best for them.

Further resources

Physical activity

Regular, moderate-intensity physical activity can support fertility by regulating menstrual cycles and enhancing overall health, including glucose control, blood pressure and mental wellbeing.

Evidence shows that engaging in physical activity for 6 months prior to pregnancy is associated with a lower risk of gestational diabetes mellitus. There is no evidence of harmful effects of exercise during the preconception period, or during pregnancy.

For adults, it is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, or approximately 30 minutes per day on most days. Encourage 2 days a week of strength-based activities.

Breaking activity into shorter segments throughout the day can make it more achievable for many individuals.

Highlight benefits:

01

Improved mood, sleep, and focus

02

Better stress control

03

More energy

04

Lower chronic disease risk

05

Use the 1-minute conversation guide to inspire change

To share:

Learn more in the videos below

How to stay motivated

Campaign video

Starting or returning to physical activity

Campaign video

When encouraging people to be more active, emphasising the benefits of physical activity can be a powerful motivator. Key benefits to highlight include:

  • Improving mood, focus and sleep
  • Enhanced mental health and wellbeing
  • Increased energy levels
  • Reduced stress levels
  • Better physical health, including lower of chronic diseases and some of cancers

Ask about activities they enjoy, as the goal may be to increase frequency or duration. Consider the financial impact of suggesting any activities that can be expensive, such as joining particular classes or fitness studios/gyms.

Short on time? Use this 1-minute conversation guide to support impactful and effective conversations that inspire movement.

Encouraging physical activity before conception

Further resources

  • Access these resources to support conversations
     
    • How to stay motivated with physical activity video
    • Starting or returning to physical activity video
    • Use this activity planner to support your consumers to make achievable movement goals for preconception health
    • Share Health and Wellbeing Queensland’s consumer-focussed exercises and workouts videos. These are activities that can be completed at home or in a small space.
    • 10,000 Steps – This supports people to increase their awareness and participation in physical activity by tracking steps, setting goals and finding ways to be active as part of their everyday lives. Delivered by web and mobile app, with email and phone support.
    • Parkrun – This can be a walk or a run for 5km along local places, in a positive, welcoming and inclusive environment with no time limits and no one finishing last. There are over 500 parkrun’s across Australia.
  • Resources for health professionals to extend learning
     

Alcohol

It is recommended that both men and women avoid drinking alcohol while trying to get pregnant.

Alcohol can affect fertility by impacting sperm and egg quality. It also increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and can affect brain development, contributing to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). While historically considered to be only the mother’s responsibility, emerging research indicates that paternal alcohol consumption during the preconception period can influence the risk of spontaneous abortion and infant health. Partners also play a significant role in maternal health behaviours – women are more likely to continue drinking during pregnancy if their partner drinks.

As most people are unaware of the exact moment they become pregnant, it is recommended that alcohol consumption stops as soon as someone begins trying for a baby. This recommendation applies for both the person carrying the pregnancy and their partner.

It is never too late to stop drinking alcohol. Encourage patients or consumers to remain alcohol-free for the remainder of their pregnancy, which helps prevent any further increase in risk to the developing baby.

Further resources

Alcohol and drug support lines:

01
1800 177 833
02
I Am Sober app
03
Daybreak app

Engaging with a GP

A General Practitioner (GP) is well placed to coordinate an individual or couple’s health needs and ensure that medical, gynaecological, mental and social factors are considered prior to pregnancy. While access and cost can be barriers for some consumers, encouragement from other community-based health professionals can be an effective way to reconnect individuals with their GP.

GPs can provide comprehensive preconception care, including:

  • Personal and family history: Assessing medical, gynaecological or mental health conditions.
  • Genetic screening and carrier testing: Screening for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, Fragile X Syndrome and Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Tests are conducted via blood or saliva samples, and Medicare rebates are available regardless of personal or family history.
  • Medication Review: Evaluating prescription, over the counter, and herbal medications that may affect fertility or pregnancy.
  • Contraception and sexual health checks: Including cervical screening and STI testing, which can also be accessed at community health centres, mobile women’s health services, women’s health centres, family planning clinics, sexual health clinics, True Relationship and Reproductive Health Clinics or Aboriginal Medical services.
  • Immunisation review: Ensuring up to-to-date vaccinations prior to conception, as some vaccines are unsafe during pregnancy and certain infections can pose serious risks to both woman and baby.
  • Home and social environment assessment: Identifying risks such as domestic violence risk or other social concerns.
  • Dental health: Addressing oral health issues, which can impact overall health and pregnancy outcomes.

GP-led preconception care provides a holistic approach to optimise health and improve outcomes for both parents and their future child.

Not safe!

There are no safe levels of illicit drug use before conception — for either partner.
Encourage professional support early.

To share:

To extend
learning:

Any health professional discussing preconception care should encourage consumers or patients to book an appointment with their GP to review their preconception health.

Preconception care involves many aspects of health, including medical history, medications, immunisations, genetic screening, and supporting positive physical and mental health. A GP is best placed to navigate these considerations and connect individuals with the appropriate tests, advice, or supports to optimise the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

While appointments may feel costly for some, GPs remain the primary health professional for addressing key preconception health needs and coordinating care.

Further resources

Recreational drugs

Recreational and non-prescribed drugs can have significant impacts on fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Substances such as marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, heroin and opioids are associated with harm to a baby’s heart and brain development and can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm birth.

In addition, injecting drugs increases the risk of infections such as hepatitis C and HIV, which can be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Supporting individuals to access treatment and harm reduction services before pregnancy can help optimise health outcomes for both parents and future children.

There are no safe limits to these drugs in the preconception phase, and it is recommended both women and men avoid using them entirely when trying to conceive.

Further resources

  • Access these resources to support conversations
     
    • Alcohol and Drug Support – Free call 24/7; 1800 177 833. The website also has information and an option to chat with a counsellor online.
    • I am sober – sobriety tracking and support app to help recover from addiction to alcohol or other substances. This can also be used for addictions to caffeine, smoking and vaping and other addictions.
    • National Alcohol and other drug hotline.
    • Dib – Your Drug Info Bot – a friendly, knowledgeable chatbot for consumers to talk to via message for anonymous, non-judgemental and trustworthy information about alcohol and other drugs.
    • Smart Recovery Australia – weekly, free and facilitated online or in-person support meetings for addictive behaviours such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, cigarettes and more.
    • Tommys – provides trusted, evidence-based information on how alcohol and drug use can affect fertility, conception, and a healthy pregnancy.
  • Resources for health professionals to extend learning
     

Talk about caffeine habits and encourage gradual swaps:

01
Smaller drinks
02
Decaf options
03
Milk or water instead
of energy drinks

Caffeine

While the effects of caffeine on preconception health are not fully understood, it is recommended that intake be limited to less than 200 mg per day. High levels of caffeine consumption may affect fertility and, during pregnancy, increase the risk of miscarriage.

Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, tea, matcha, energy drinks, some soft drinks, chocolate, certain painkillers, weight-loss supplements, and pre- or post-workout drinks or powders.

For reference, 200 mg of caffeine is approximately equivalent to 1–2 standard cups of coffee or 4–8 cups of tea. It is important to check labels on energy drinks, soft drinks, and matcha products, as caffeine content can vary. Energy drinks may also contain additional stimulants that can amplify the effects of caffeine.

Standard vaccines

Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, DTP, COVID-19

Additional if at risk

Hepatitis A, Influenza B

Checking in with your consumers about their caffeine consumption can create a positive change they can make to support their fertility. If they have concerns around their caffeine consumption, encourage them to discuss these concerns with a GP or dietitian.

If your consumer relies on large volumes of caffeine each day, encourage swaps to reduce their daily intake. This can be choosing smaller sized caffeinated drinks, switching to decaffeinated options or tea

Further resources

Vaccinations

Pregnancy increases the risk of certain vaccine-preventable diseases, which can lead to complications and poor health outcomes for both the parent and the infant. Some vaccinations are most effective when given prior to pregnancy.

Vaccinations can be administered by a GP, obstetrician, participating pharmacist, or Aboriginal Medical Service.

Standard recommended vaccines include:

  • Hepatitis B
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
  • Varicella (chickenpox)
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
  • COVID-19

Additional vaccines may be recommended depending on individual risk. Encouraging patients to review and update their vaccination status before conception helps optimise maternal and infant health outcomes.

Encourage consumers to book an appointment with their preferred health provider to review and update their vaccinations before pregnancy.

If they are unsure of their vaccination history or immune status, they can check the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) for accurate records.

The role of pharmacists in supporting preconception care

Further resources

Sexual health check & cervical screening

A sexual health check is an assessment conducted by a health professional to identify sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and related issues. This typically involves blood, urine, and swab tests.

Many individuals with STIs are asymptomatic, yet can still transmit infections. Untreated STIs can lead to long-term health complications, making screening an important part of preconception care.

Cervical screening is also considered a key component of preconception health checks. This test detects human papillomavirus (HPV) and helps reduce the risk of cervical cancer, supporting both the health of the parent and future pregnancy outcomes.

Support your consumers to access a sexual health check before trying for a baby.

Learn more in the video below

How to stay motivated

Campaign video

Further resources

Healthy weight

Body weight is an important consideration for both men and women before conception.

  • Underweight: Being below a healthy weight can reduce fertility and increase the risk of preterm delivery.
  • Overweight or obesity: Living with overweight or obesity can reduce fertility and increase pregnancy-related risks, including gestational diabetes, hypertension, macrosomia, caesarean delivery, and postpartum haemorrhage.

Promoting healthy behaviours – such as balanced nutrition and regular physical activity – will improve preconception health, even if weight loss or gain is not achieved. Ensuring key nutrients are consumed in adequate amounts throughout the day supports fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

It is important to recognise that body weight is influenced by multiple factors beyond diet and exercise, including food security, built environment, cultural context, work demands, and stress. Approaches to supporting healthy weight should be non-stigmatising and tailored to the individual’s circumstances.

Encourage patients to set achievable nutrition and physical activity goals to support overall health before pregnancy.

Recognise that weight loss or gain can be challenging and may take time. Emphasise the multiple health benefits of healthy eating and regular physical activity that often occur before weight changes, including:

  • Improved sleep quality
  • Increased energy levels
  • Hormone regulation
  • Stabilised blood sugar
  • Better blood pressure

Making goals based on non-weight outcomes, such as those above, helps shift the focus from weight alone to overall health and wellbeing, making health behaviour improvements more sustainable and motivating.

Encouraging physical activity before conception

The importance of nutrition in preconception care

Further resources

  • Access these resources to support conversations
     
    • My Health for Life – free, personalised health coaching through group sessions, phone, or online options. It empowers participants to set achievable goals and take control of their health before problems develop.
    • Utilise free and available support services to help your consumers get moving.
      • 10,000 Steps – This supports people to increase their awareness and participation in physical activity by tracking steps, setting goals and finding ways to be active as part of their everyday lives. Delivered by web and mobile app, with email and phone support.
      • Parkrun – This can be a walk or a run for 5km along local places, in a positive, welcoming and inclusive environment with no time limits and no one finishing last.  There are over 500 parkrun’s across Australia.
    • Nutrition resources
  • Resources for health professionals to extend learning
     

Other factors that impact fertility

There are many other aspects that can impact fertility or a woman’s health once pregnant. Some of these can be improved with health support. Encourage your consumers to visit their GP to get the best individualised advice.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – A hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods and difficulties getting pregnant.

Age – Despite advances in assisted reproductive technology (such as IVF), the chance of conception decreases with maternal age.

Environmental factors – Chemicals in the environment can reduce pregnancy success.

Mental Health – The idea of pregnancy can cause mixed emotions in individuals and couples.

01

About PCOS

Download

02

Thinking about having a baby

Download

03

Reducing exposure to chemicals

Download

Additional factors &
professional resources

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal condition affecting women of reproductive age, impacting approximately 1 in 7 women. It is primarily caused by hormonal imbalances rather than a disease of the ovaries.

PCOS can present with a range of symptoms, including:

The exact causes of PCOS are not fully understood, but genetics, prenatal hormone exposure, and health behaviours all contribute.

While there is no cure for PCOS, managing hormone levels through health behaviour interventions – such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity – can improve ovarian function and increase the chances of conception.

Encourage individuals with PCOS to:

01
See a GP for diagnosis and management before pregnancy
02
Focus on healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, and weight management
03
Discuss appropriate medication if needed

Encourage women who have symptoms suggestive of PCOS to visit their GP for assessment. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to evaluate hormone levels, with ultrasound imaging used when required to assess ovarian morphology. Early identification and management can help optimise fertility and preconception health.

Further resources

  • Access these resources to support conversations
     
    • Share a PCOS fact sheet for more detailed information about treatment options
    • AskPCOS is an app created by Monash University dedicated to providing evidence-based information about PCOS. It provides information for people with or without a diagnosis about the condition, has a symptom tracker and provides information on how to manage PCOS.
    • Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a not-for-profit Australian health promotion organisation that provides
      evidence-based PCOS information.
    • The Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation website provides a comprehensive range of information for women with PCOS and for health professionals.
    • The Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association of Australia Inc (POSAA) was formed in 1998, by a group of Australian women who found each other on an American-based PCOS website. POSAA is a ‘self-help’ association for women with PCOS and those who suspect they have it. The Association brings together women, their families and friends, and medical professionals interested in supporting the group and PCOS patients.

Age

Despite advances in assisted reproductive technology (such as IVF), the chance of conception decreases with maternal age.

People who have struggled to fall pregnant may seek health professional support to determine why. A GP is the best health professional to support couples; however, there are resources available to support your own knowledge and learning.

Encourage women and men who may want children, to engage in preconception health discussions with their GP to enable early and effective opportunities to improve or maximise fertility.

Encourage open conversations about age and fertility:

01
Discuss realistic expectations and timelines
02
Highlight options for fertility preservation if needed
03
Provide accurate information rather than fear-based messaging

Further resources

Mental health

The idea of falling pregnant can be exciting, however it can also cause stress for individuals or couples.

To support consumers’ mental health, utilise Lifeline’s Support Toolkit, which includes access to a wide range of apps, 24/7 callback or crisis support lines, and counselling support. Share resources such as, Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) – Preparing for Pregnancy

Environmental toxins

Environmental toxins are chemicals and heavy metals, pesticides and air pollution. Preconception exposure to environmental toxins can adversely impact fertility, pregnancy and foetal development, which may have impacts on a baby once born.

Prior to trying for a baby, minimising exposure for both parents to specific environmental toxins, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and air pollutants, is recommended. Engaging with a GP can support this.

Encourage individuals with PCOS to:

01
Reduce exposure at home and work
02
Choose fresh food over packaged
03
Promote awareness of environmental impacts on reproductive health
04
Ventilate spaces regularly
05
Avoid smoking or strong chemical fumes

Further resources

Further learning & professional resources

RANZCOG -Pre-Pregnancy Counselling

RACGP – Guidelines for Preventive Activities in General Practice: The Red Book – Preventive Activities Prior to Pregnancy

Australian Journal of General Practice – Preconception Care

American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists – PrePregnancy Counselling

Queensland Health has developed a suite of Maternal Health Brief Intervention training modules focusing on improving health behaviours in pregnancy. These counselling skills can be utilised in preconception health.

Queensland Maternity and Neonatal Clinical Guidelines: Obesity – Knowledge Assessment Tool

Mater Mothers’ Nine Months of Nutrition

Queensland Maternity and Neonatal Clinical Guidelines: Breastfeeding initiation – knowledge assessment tool

Australian Journal of General Practice – Preconception and Antenatal Carrier Screening for Genetic Conditions: The Critical Role of General Practitioners

Northern Territory Department of Health and Families – Strong Women, Strong Babies, Strong Culture (SWSBC) Program

Genetics in Medicine: Screening For Autosomal Recessive and X-linked Conditions During Pregnancy and Preconception: A Practice Resource of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG)

Human Genetics Society of Australasia: HGSA Policies and Position Statements

Professional Resources List

01

National campaign providing evidence-based information

Your Fertility

02

Clinical resources and patient materials

Jean Hailes for Women’s Health

03

Preconception care guidelines

RACGP — The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners

04

Professional recommendations

RANZCOG — Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

05

Campaign materials and training

Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld)

06

Evidence-based guidelines

NHMRC

Recommended Reading

  • Boyle JA et al., Policies and Healthcare to Support Preconception Planning: An Opportunity to Improve Women’s and Men’s Health (2022)
  • Micronutrient Supplementation Preconception and During Pregnancy (YourFertility.org.au, 2018)
  • Australian Dietary Guidelines — Preconception Focus (NHMRC)
  • Mental Health and Preconception Care — RACGP Module
Access full professional training modules
Before the Baby Bump is an initiative of the Queensland Government, delivered by Health and Wellbeing Queensland, and funded through Queensland Health’s Supporting Healthier Pregnancies Initiative.

Health and Wellbeing Queensland acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians of the lands from across Queensland. We pay our respects to the Elders past and present for they are holders of the memories, traditions, the culture and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Queensland.

© Health and Wellbeing Queensland 2026