Data, Policies and Programs to Improve Preconception Nutrition in South Asia

Avishek Hazra, PopulationCouncil Consulting
Tashi Choedon, Consultant
Monica Shrivastav, PopulationCouncil Consulting
Raj Kumar Verma, Population Council, India
Cheshta Gulati, Consultant, PopulationCouncil Consulting
Abner Daniel, UNICEF Sri Lanka
Preetu Mishra, UNICEF India
Naveen Paudyal, UNICEF Nepal
Naureen Arshad, UNICEF Pakistan
Dhammica Rowel , UNICEF Sri Lanka
Vani Sethi, UNICEF Regional Office of South Asia

The months before a woman conceives are crucial for improving the health of future mothers and babies. Preconception care has received increased attention particularly after the 2018 Lancet series. Despite this, there is limited research and measurable indicators to track the impact of policies and programs targeting preconception nutrition interventions. This paper examines the status of preconception nutrition in eight South Asian countries, reviews relevant public policies and programs delivering preconception nutrition interventions; and analyzes the systems bottlenecks in program implementation. The study followed a mixed-methods approach and was conducted during August 2023-July 2024, focusing on 15-49 years married pre-pregnant women across the countries. Analysis of large-scale survey data reveals that 25% pre-pregnant women in the region are underweight, one-third are anemic, and younger women are more vulnerable. One in ten pre-pregnant women in most of these countries suffer from diabetes or hypertension. Except Sri Lanka, most countries lack universal programs for health and nutrition screening and essential micronutrients. Despite a positive policy environment in many of these countries, the implementation of comprehensive nutrition services for pre-pregnant women faces significant bottlenecks. These barriers, coupled with limitations in program data, hinder decision-making and the ability to determine which interventions are most effective.

Keywords: Population Policies, Mixed methods research, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

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