This section provides practical guidance to help you approach preconception health confidently, overcome common barriers, and engage in respectful, inclusive discussions that build trust and support positive outcomes.
Start with open, gentle questions to understand what matters to the person.
Examples:
- What's most important to you about your health right now?
- Is there anything about your wellbeing you'd like to talk about today?
Asking first helps you avoid assumptions and gives the person choice and control.
Offer clear, simple information based on what the person has shared.
You can:
- explain why preconception health matters
- share small steps that can support a healthier pregnancy
- offer leaflets, information, or signposting
- acknowledge different cultural, emotional, or personal contexts
Barriers to talking about preconception health
There may be several reasons why staff feel unsure about raising preconception health. This toolkit will help you to overcome these barriers by providing:
- clear, evidence‑based guidance
- simple messages written in plain language
- resources to support quick, meaningful conversations
- tools to reduce fear of causing offence or making assumptions
- support for culturally sensitive and trauma‑informed practice
The toolkit also recognises that time is limited, so materials are designed to support short but helpful discussions.
Acknowledging sensitivity in preconception conversations
Preconception health is personal. Some people may feel distressed if assumptions are made about their ability or desire to become pregnant. This may include people who:
- do not wish to have children
- have experienced pregnancy loss or infertility
- are actively trying to conceive and may feel blamed for difficulties
Use clear and respectful language. If a conversation feels pushy or confusing, it can break trust, stop people from asking for help in the future.
Approaches to engagement
Approach discussions around preconception health with sensitivity, framing it as part of routine care.
Practical tips for non-stigmatising conversations
- avoid assumptions
- use inclusive phrasing
- normalise the conversation
- show empathy and avoid blame
- offer choice and control
These approaches help people reflect on their health without feeling judged or pressured.
Motivational interviewing
Motivational interviewing can help create a supportive atmosphere.
You can use:
- open‑ended questions
- active listening
- reflective statements ("It sounds like…")
This helps people explore their own motivations and feel valued.
Involving partners and family
Where appropriate, encourage partners to join conversations.
Shared understanding supports shared responsibility and can improve health outcomes for future pregnancies.
Culturally sensitive approaches
People’s beliefs about fertility, pregnancy, and health vary widely. Try to:
- learn about cultural norms in the communities you support
- recognise that not everyone follows the same traditions
- respect the role of cultural or religious leaders
- avoid assumptions based on background
- stay open and curious, acknowledging you may not know everything
Approaching each person as an individual helps build trust.
Action plan
When talking about improving health before pregnancy, it often helps to focus on one small, achievable step.
For example, you might ask "What is one small change you feel you could make this month to support your health?"
Provide resources, leaflets, or information in clear, accessible formats and in the right language.
Remember that the average reading age is 9 to 11 years. Keeping information simple supports better understanding and confidence.
Training and awareness
Trauma-Informed Derbyshire: Foundation Learning
Trauma-Informed Derbyshire offers a free, interactive online learning for staff and volunteers across Derbyshire and Derby until April 2027.
Online Foundation Learning - Derbyshire Mind
Online Foundation Learning - Derbyshire Mind - using trauma‑informed principles helps ensure conversations about fertility, pregnancy planning, and early parenthood are delivered with empathy and understanding, especially for people who may have experienced trauma.