Supporting better preconception care after pregnancy loss

Pregnancy loss affects many families, yet care after loss remains fragmented, inconsistent, and often unsupported by strong evidence. While folate supplementation is routinely recommended before pregnancy, there are still major gaps in our understanding of how folate should be used, for whom, and under what circumstances—particularly for people who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss. 

This program of research at Southern Cross University is focused on building the evidence needed to guide clearer, more consistent, and more compassionate preconception care—for both women and men—over the years to come. 

Why this work needs to continue

Right now, people affected by pregnancy loss are often left to navigate conflicting advice about supplements, genetics, and preconception care on their own. Health professionals also report uncertainty, relying on default recommendations rather than tailored, evidence based guidance.
To improve care, we must first do the groundwork properly.

That means investing in research that:

• Carefully studies different folate approaches, rather than assuming one size fits all
• Considers genetic variation such as MTHFR within a rigorous, evidence-based framework
• Includes both partners, recognising that preconception health is shared
• Ensures supplements, testing, and outcomes are measured accurately and consistently
• Prioritises clear communication for families and clinicians alike

This is not work that can be solved by a single study. It requires a long term research pathway, moving from feasibility to larger trials, clinical guidance, and improved models of care.

"Folate and the related MTHFR gene play vital roles in the production of healthy DNA, which is needed for the rapid growth of the unborn foetus." 

What we need to do next

Support raised through this campaign will help us take the next critical steps, including:

• Designing the next phase of larger, well controlled preconception studies
• Establishing robust methods for measuring folate status and related biomarkers
• Ensuring high quality, stable supplements are used in future research
• Developing clear educational resources for participants and health professionals
• Laying the foundation for multi year research that can inform national practice

Looking ahead

Over the coming years, this research aims to contribute to:

• Stronger evidence to guide preconception care after pregnancy loss
• Greater consistency in clinical advice
• Reduced confusion and uncertainty for families
• Care that is informed by science, transparency, and lived experience

Your support helps shape what comes next.

By supporting this work, you are helping to build a research foundation that allows future care to move beyond guesswork—and toward clarity, confidence, and compassion.

Donate today to support the next phase of pregnancy loss research.

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