Abstract:Abstract: OBJECTIVE To describe the knowledge of preconception health care and the utilization of preconception health services among pregnant women in Maanshan,and to analyze the factors influencing the utilization of preconception health services. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2024.Pregnant women who established maternal health records at medical/midwifery institutions or township health centers across counties/districts were surveyed using a self-designed questionnaire titled “Survey on the Status of Primary Prevention of Birth Defects Among Pregnant Women in Ma'anshan”.Binary logistic regression analyzed factors influencing preconception health behaviors.RESULTS Valid questionnaires were collected from 1,502 pregnant women. Awarenessof preconception care knowledge reached 82.9%,while correct utilization of preconception care medications stood at 87.2%. Lack of knowledge about preconception care,household size exceeding four members,and unplanned pregnancy were identified as risk factors for incorrect utilization of preconception care services(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Knowledge of prenatal care among women of childbearing age in Maanshan requires improvement.Strengthened prenatal counseling and guidance for key populations,such as those with large families and unplanned pregnancies,is needed to help women prepare for planned pregnancies and thereby increase utilization of prenatal care services.