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Maternal Health Awareness

Maternal Health Awareness Day
Reviewed By: Jamila Pleas, Labor and Delivery Nursing Manager
Published: Tuesday Jan. 23, 2024
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Maternal Health Awareness Day is an important event that focuses on the health and well-being of mothers worldwide. It's a day to raise awareness about the essential practices and healthcare services that can protect mothers' health during pregnancy and childbirth. Recognizing this day is vital as it highlights the importance of maternal health and the need for quality healthcare for all mothers. It reminds us that every mother deserves a safe pregnancy and childbirth experience.

Understanding Maternal Health

Maternal health is a term that refers to the wellness of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. This includes their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. When a woman is pregnant or has just had a baby, her body goes through many changes. It's important for her to get medical care to keep herself and her baby healthy. This care is what we call 'maternal health.'

Maternal health also involves treating any health problems that might come up during pregnancy, like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, which is a condition that can cause high blood pressure. Women also need care after giving birth to recover and to make sure they are healthy. Maternal health includes mental health too. Some women may experience feelings of sadness or worry after having a baby, which is sometimes called postpartum depression.

Current State of Maternal Health Globally and Locally

Lack of maternal health is a big issue all over the world. According to data from the World Health Organization, a group that looks at health issues globally, a woman dies from complications in pregnancy or childbirth every minute. That's a lot of moms!

In the United States, the situation is serious too. According to a report by Donna L. Hoyert, Ph.D., there were 1,205 maternal deaths in 2021. This means that for every 100,000 babies born, about 33 moms died due to pregnancy or childbirth-related causes. This number has been increasing since 2019, which is a worrying trend.

It's important to note that not all women face the same amount of risk. The report showed that Black women had a higher risk of dying from pregnancy-related causes than White and Hispanic women. Also, older women (aged 40 and over) had a much higher risk than younger women.

Many of these deaths can be prevented with the right care. That's why it's so important for all women to have access to good healthcare during pregnancy and after childbirth.

The Importance of Prenatal Care in Maternal Health

Prenatal care plays a crucial part in keeping mothers and their babies safe and healthy. Prenatal care includes regular medical checkups during pregnancy. These checkups allow doctors to spot possible health problems early on. For instance, they can catch conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia before they become severe. Addressing these issues early can mean safer pregnancies and healthier babies.

Prenatal care also involves educating mothers-to-be. They learn about proper diet, exercise, and what changes to expect in their bodies. Moms are encouraged to avoid harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol. This knowledge can help them make healthier choices for themselves and their babies.

After childbirth, this care continues. Mothers receive check-ups to ensure they are healing properly and to check for postpartum depression, a serious condition affecting some new moms.

Ways to Improve Maternal Health

There are several ways to take care of mothers during pregnancy and after the baby is born. Here are some examples:

  • Regular Doctor's Visits: Going to the doctor often during pregnancy is important. The doctor can check on the mother's health and the baby's growth. These visits can help catch any health problems early on.
  • Healthy Eating: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help keep both mom and baby healthy. It's also important to take vitamins like folic acid, which can help prevent certain birth defects.
  • Regular Exercise: With a doctor's approval, light exercises like walking or swimming can help keep the mother-to-be fit and can even help with labor and delivery.
  • Avoid Harmful Substances: Mothers need to avoid things like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs during pregnancy. These substances could harm the baby's development.
  • Mental Health Check-ups: After the baby is born, the mother should continue to see her doctor or a mental health professional. They can look for signs of postpartum depression, which is a serious condition that can make a new mom feel very sad, anxious, or tired.
  • Breastfeeding Support: Breastfeeding can be beneficial for both mom and baby, but it isn't always easy. Getting help from a lactation consultant or a breastfeeding support group can be really helpful.

     

Each woman's pregnancy is unique, so it's important to talk with a healthcare provider about what preventive measures are right for each individual.

Preparing Ahead

As you embark on this beautiful journey of pregnancy, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and peace of mind. One way to ease anxiety and ensure a more fulfilling experience during your doctor's appointments is by preparing in advance. Taking a few moments to jot down any questions, concerns, or observations beforehand can make a significant difference. This proactive approach not only helps you address specific issues but also allows for a more focused and productive discussion with your healthcare provider. By being well-prepared, you empower yourself to actively participate in your prenatal care, fostering a sense of confidence and reassurance. Remember, your health and the well-being of your little one are paramount, and preparation is a simple yet impactful way to enhance the quality of your prenatal appointments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, prenatal and postnatal care are extremely important for the protection and improvement of maternal health. These healthcare services give women important knowledge, regular health check-ups, and early detection of possible problems. They help keep both the mother and baby healthy during pregnancy and after giving birth. Therefore, it is vital that everyone has access to high-quality prenatal and postnatal care to reduce maternal mortality and improve maternal health worldwide.

Broward Health, providing service for more than 85 years, is a nationally recognized system in South Florida that offers world-class healthcare to all. The Broward Health system includes the statutory teaching hospital Broward Health Medical Center, Broward Health North, Broward Health Imperial Point, Broward Health Coral Springs, Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital, Broward Health Weston, Broward HealthPoint, Broward Health Physician Group, Broward Health Urgent Care, Broward Health International, and Broward Health Foundation. For more information, visit BrowardHealth.org.