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Scottish preconception health research is focused on better outcomes through survey and database
A senior lecturer at the University of Stirling has spoken about the significant impact of a patient and public involvement (PPI) database and national survey in helping to shape enhanced preconception health research
Coinciding with this month’s International Women’s Day (IWD), highly experienced Health Psychologist Dr Sinéad Currie believes that the work is vital to improving “not only physical health outcomes but mental health, wellbeing, and social outcomes”.
Sinéad is Lead for the Scottish Preconception Health Research Network (SPHRN) — a multidisciplinary team working under the umbrella of the NHS Research Scotland (NRS) Reproductive Health and Childbirth Specialty Group.
The Specialty Group recently sent out an IWD call to others working in this area in a bid to bring to life groundbreaking work around a specific theme of ‘Every Woman Counts — In Care and Research’.
Sinéad responded to that call, noting to the speciality group that her research focuses on optimising the health and wellbeing of women, and their families, before, during, and after pregnancy.
She said: “I am privileged to lead research that can help to improve the short and long-term outcomes for women and their families. This reflects not only physical health outcomes but mental health, wellbeing, and social outcomes.
“Being involved in research and working with people during this important life stage is an honour.”
SPHRN held a Scottish Preconception Health Research Showcase at Stirling Court Hotel this week which invited attendees to delve into the latest findings and ideas shaping the future of health before pregnancy.
Organisers said it was a great platform to hear from a collaborative community of experts, connect with researchers, share insights, success stories, and explore exciting projects which hold significant promise for future ambitions.
Sinéad continued: “As a network, we aim to ensure that all preconception health research in Scotland is aligned with population need and makes a difference to people’s lives.
“For example, we strive to ensure that a diverse range of stakeholders are involved in all of our work, from initial ideas to testing and implementation of research outcomes.
“We have completed a national survey obtaining the views of a wide range of stakeholders regarding what preconception health research is needed. We have developed a patient and public involvement (PPI) database to ensure that researchers can easily get in touch with PPI representatives at all stages of research.
“Additionally, we hosted a research showcase event which brought together a wide range of stakeholders who worked together to develop a research strategy for preconception health in Scotland.
“These network activities not only facilitate high-quality research but ensure that said research is impactful and implementable to make a difference to the lives of women and their families for years to come.”
Reproductive Health and Childbirth Champion Support Manager, Anushree ‘Annie’ Ganguly said: “We are grateful to Sinéad for highlighting these vital initiatives to us.
“Preconception health research is an important and topical area of discussion that is especially pertinent to International Women’s Day and for the shaping of healthier futures.”
For further information on the Preconception Health Research Network, contact the SPHRN email address.
Publication date: 27th March 2026
