Stage

Pre-conception

Pre-conception is about the conditions that shape early starting points: health, supports, and environments before pregnancy. This page provides an orientation to the stage and links into the topics library as it grows.

Before pregnancy Foundations Prevention-focused Evidence-based

Start here

What matters most

Health behaviors and routines that support long-term wellbeing.
Environmental exposures (e.g., tobacco smoke, certain toxins) where risk reduction is feasible.
Stress and support (protective factors like social support and stability).
Planning and care access when relevant for your situation.

Practical principle

You do not need “perfect” conditions. You need a small number of reliable supports that reduce avoidable risk and strengthen foundations.

How to use this stage page

Find guidance fast

If you have a specific question, go straight to Topics. If you don’t see it yet, request it and we’ll prioritize it.

Browse topics Request a pre-conception topic

Common topics for this stage

What we’re building

Nutrition foundations
Sleep and routines
Stress physiology and protective supports
Environmental health and exposure reduction
Substance exposure (tobacco/alcohol) risk reduction

These will be published as research summaries + practical guidance, with citations and evidence notes.

Next stage

Prenatal

Once pregnancy begins, the focus shifts to prenatal care, nutrition, stress, exposures, and protective caregiving environments.

Go to Prenatal stage

Prefer a different stage? Return to the Development Timeline.