Most of us weren't taught that what happens before conception matters. You were told to take a folate supplement, book in when you got a positive test, and go from there. But there's a window of time before you even start trying that can shape not just your pregnancy, but your child's long-term health.

The science on preconception care has moved significantly, and most people still aren't hearing about it.

This is Part 2 of our six-part Trying to Conceive series.

In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White sits down with Dr Eliza Hannam, GP, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and founder of Nurtured Medical, a specialised perinatal clinic in Sydney, to explore what genuinely evidence-informed preconception care looks like. Together they unpack what the periconception window actually means, what testing is available and when to seek it, and what both partners can do to optimise health before pregnancy begins.

You'll Hear About:

Why preconception health affects your child's long-term metabolic health
What a thorough preconception GP appointment covers
Which supplements and nutrients matter most before conception
How to read your cycle beyond what any app can tell you
When to seek fertility support without waiting 12 months

The periconception window is a gift of time, and knowing how to use it well changes things. You don't need to be a biochemist to understand it. You just need the right conversation.

If you know someone who's thinking about starting a family, share this one with them. And subscribe so you don't miss an episode of The Science of Motherhood.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Dr Renee White:

📲 Follow Renee on Instagram: fillyourcup_

🌐 Learn more about Dr Renee White and explore Fill Your Cup Doula services

🍪 Treat yourself with our Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies

Connect with Dr Eliza Hannam:

🌐 Website — www.nurturedmedical.com.au perinatal GP clinic, Sydney Inner West (telehealth available Australia-wide)

Follow Eliza on Instagram: @dr.eliza.hannam | @nurturedmedical

Start the Trying to Conceive series from the beginning — head to Episode 227 on The Science of Motherhood feed.

Mentioned in this episode:

Mackenzie's Mission — government-funded carrier screening for cystic fibrosis, fragile X, and spinal muscular atrophy
Mothersafe — free medication helpline, NSW
In the Flow by Alisa Vitti

This episode is proudly supported by Fill Your Cup, Australia's first doula village, with doulas available across Melbourne, Geelong, Sydney, Newcastle, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Hobart and Perth.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast presented by Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice. Nothing contained in this episode is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.