Contribute to the Future of Maternal & Child Health

📢 Call for Abstracts

The UNIVEN–SAMRC Conference 2026 invites researchers, clinicians, academics, policymakers, postgraduate students, and practitioners in the field of maternal and child health to submit abstracts for presentation at the upcoming conference.


This year’s theme, “Collaborative Care: For Healthier Futures – Strengthening Pregnancy Outcomes through Multidisciplinary Preconception Support in Southern Africa,” aims to showcase innovative research, practical solutions, and community‑centered approaches to improving preconception and maternal health in the region. 

We welcome submissions aligned with the conference’s core focus areas.

A nurse attends to a young patient while a guardian looks on in a hospital ward.
589913727 1158418183159892 325176334051827450 n
Close-up of a negative pregnancy test displayed by a woman's hand.
Submissions may be considered for oral or poster presentations.

Download Submission Documents

 

 

Register
590120513 1159357343065976 861744793290037731 n

Key Themes & Focus Areas

The conference explores several core themes affecting preconception and pregnancy outcomes:

Mental Health & Stress Management

  • Addressing pre‑pregnancy anxiety, depression, and stress
  • Building maternal resilience and confidence
  • Impact of stress reduction on maternal and fetal outcomes

Preconception Health & Public Health

  • Importance of quality nursing and preventive health services
  • Community‑based health education
  • Early detection of conditions such as hypertension and diabetes
  • Reducing risk factors: smoking, alcohol, substance use

Nutrition & Supplementation

  • Optimal dietary practices before pregnancy
  • Importance of micronutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium
  • Addressing obesity, malnutrition, and cultural dietary factors
  • Ensuring access to affordable, nutritious food

Physical Activity, Health & Well‑being

  • Exercise guidelines for preconception health
  • Managing musculoskeletal challenges
  • Promoting healthy weight and metabolic balance

Abstract Submission Guidelines

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Format Requirements

  • Maximum Length: 250–300 words
  • Abstract Structure:
    • Background
    • Methods
    • Results
    • Conclusion / Implications
  • Include the Following:
    • Title
    • Authors
    • Affiliations
  • Keywords: Provide 3–5 keywords
  • File Format: Submit in Microsoft Word or PDF format

Presentation Opportunities

Accepted abstracts will be scheduled for:

  • Oral Presentations during themed sessions
  • Poster Presentations showcased throughout the conference

Outstanding abstracts may be invited for key spotlight sessions.

Important Date

Abstract Submission Deadline:

20 February 2026

(Late submissions will not be considered.)

Submission Method

All abstracts must be emailed to:
HConference2026@univen.ac.za