Introduction: The preconception period is the period before pregnancy, and decisions of women and men during this time can positively or negatively impact pregnancy outcomes and the health of their offspring. Due to the deteriorating nutritional status and lack of micronutrients and vitamins in men and women, there has been an increase in interest on the influence of microelements and vitamins on the preconception period, on conception and on pregnancy and the fetus. Therefore, raising awareness about the consequences of their lack or excess is extremely important. Purpose: The purpose of the diploma work is to study and present certain microelements (zinc, iodine and magnesium) and vitamin D and their role in the body in the preconception period in men and women. It is also intended to present their influence on pregnancy and the fetus. Methods: A descriptive method of work was used in the diploma. The data was collected through a review and critical selection of professional literature. We reviewed foreign and Slovenian databases. The literature was searched in the Slovenian and English languages, within a time frame from 2005 to 2022. Results: The analysis of the included studies showed that zinc, iodine, magnesium and vitamin D have a positive effect on the pre–pregnancy period, as their appropriate values contribute to easier spontaneous conception, and their addition prevents complications and negative outcomes associated with the pre–conception period and pregnancy. With the help of the analysis, we also found that the lack of microelements and vitamins, despite good promotion, is on the rise. Discussion and conclusion: Due to the global lack of nutrients, vitamins and microelements in nutrition, problems with conceiving occur more and more often in couples. In addition to their work, healthcare workers must therefore devote more time to planning pregnancy, preventing certain complications, and educating women and men about the impact of certain microelements and vitamins on their health. It is important, that we also include diet. We need to provide couples with evidence – based information that would encourage them to make better decisions together that positively affect their chances of getting pregnant.
|