Health care providers in all specialties should make the most of every opportunity to encourage EVERY WOMAN of reproductive age to be HEALTHY.
The H.E.A.L.T.H.Y acronym provides a quick provider reference for areas to address in preconception counseling.
H - HEALTH PROMOTION
- Nutrition – Eat a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water daily.
- Vitamins and Folic Acid – Daily intake of a multivitamin that contains 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid.
- Exercise - Regular exercise helps strengthen the body.
- Dental Health – Dental cavities and gum disease should be treated promptly.
E - ENVIRONMENT
- Reduce exposure to harmful substances in the home and workplace such as lead, pesticides, radiation, chemicals, and mercury.
A - ASSESS FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK FACTORS
- Domestic violence, stress, and depression can have negative effects on health.
- Encourage plenty of rest and offer stress reduction measures.
- Be alert; refer for counseling and treatment if needed.
L - LIFESTYLE CHANGES
- Alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs can be harmful to one’s health.
- Refer client to appropriate programs.
- Talk to your client about family planning to prevent unplanned pregnancies.
- Promote safe sex practices to prevent sexually-transmitted infections.
T - TESTED AND TREATED FOR INFECTIONS
- Encourage the client to know their hepatitis B and HIV status.
- Be sure that all immunizations are up-to-date.
- Offer testing and treatment for sexually-transmitted infections.
- Counsel on safe sex practices and dangers of douching.
H - HEALTH HISTORY
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart problems may increase the risk of a poor health outcome. Encourage and assist clients in following up on conditions.
- If there is a family history of genetic disorders, counseling should be obtained.
Y - YOU CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
- Encourage the client to take responsibility for their health.