Maternal health refers to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. It’s beyond avoiding complications—it’s about thriving, feeling supported, and giving moms and their babies a healthy start. Sadly, the United States faces what many call a “maternal health crisis.” Even though we are one of the wealthiest nations, the maternal mortality rate is alarmingly high.

The Challenges of Maternal Health

According to a 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) report, the U.S. ranks 55th in the world for maternal mortality—the worst among developed nations. What’s even more concerning is that 80% of maternal deaths are preventable. That’s not a mere statistic; it’s a call to action to improve maternal health for every woman.

The Alarming Reality of Maternity Care in The US

Picture this: 36% of counties in the U.S. are considered “maternity care deserts,” meaning millions of women and babies lack access to necessary reproductive health care, according to March of Dimes. That’s 5.6 million women and 350,000 babies without access to services like OB/GYNs or obstetric hospitals. That’s not inconvenient; it’s life-threatening.

But there’s hope. In 2022, maternal deaths in the U.S. decreased to 817 from 1,205 in 2021, showing that progress is possible when we prioritize maternal health. However, much work remains to be done.

The Building Blocks of Maternal Health

1. Prenatal Care: A Lifeline for Expectant Mothers

Prenatal care is the foundation of a healthy pregnancy. It’s not about regular checkups only—it’s a chance to monitor your health and the baby’s growth while addressing any pregnancy complications early. For many women, that could be the difference between a smooth pregnancy and life-threatening complications like high blood pressure or severe bleeding.

Regular prenatal visits allow skilled health professionals to detect early signs of complications before they escalate.

2. Safe Labor and Delivery

Every mom deserves a safe, supported delivery. But that’s not the reality for everyone. Most maternal deaths occur during labor or shortly after due to preventable causes like obstructed labor or severe bleeding. That’s why access to emergency obstetric care and skilled birth attendants is a must.

3. Postnatal Care: Beyond the First Cry

Excellent postnatal care is what guarantees that mothers recover fully and that newborn health is closely monitored. Emotional support in that time is important, too. Many new moms face challenges like postpartum depression or breastfeeding difficulties, which impact their health and the baby’s well-being.

Let’s Empower You With Knowledge

You’re a mom or an expecting mom, and you’re strong, but you shouldn’t have to figure things out alone. Every mom deserves education about the early signs of complications, the importance of postnatal care, and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Here are some important details you need for your maternal wellbeing:

Understand Your Body: The Importance of Prenatal Care

Think of prenatal care as your roadmap to a healthy pregnancy. It’s a series of checkups with your healthcare provider where you’ll receive:

• Regular checkups: The checkups allow your doctor to monitor your baby’s growth and development, as well as check your own health.
• Testing: You’ll undergo various tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and ultrasounds, to screen for any potential problems.
• Education: Your doctor will provide you with valuable information about nutrition, exercise, and other important aspects of pregnancy.
• Emotional Support: Prenatal care provides a safe space for you to discuss any concerns or anxieties you may have.

Why is prenatal care so important?

• Early Detection of Complications: Early detection of complications like high blood pressure (hypertensive disorders), gestational diabetes, and infections is crucial for both you and your baby.
• Improved Birth Outcomes: Regular prenatal care significantly reduces the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and other complications.
• Better Health for You: Prenatal care helps you maintain your own health during pregnancy and helps you identify and address any existing health conditions.

The Warning Signs:

While most pregnancies are healthy and uncomplicated, it’s important to be aware of potential warning signs:

• Severe bleeding: Any significant amount of vaginal bleeding should be reported to your doctor immediately.
• Severe abdominal pain: Sudden or severe abdominal pain might be a sign of a serious problem.
• Decreased fetal movement: If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movements, contact your doctor right away.
• Swelling: Sudden or excessive swelling in your hands, face, or ankles could be a sign of preeclampsia.
• Headache: Severe headaches, especially when accompanied by blurred vision or changes in vision, should be reported to your doctor.
• Fever: Fever may be a sign of infection.

Postnatal Care: A Time for Healing and Bonding

The journey doesn’t end with childbirth. Postnatal care is equally important for your physical and emotional recovery. Here are useful tips on how to deal with postpartum changes:

• Checkups: Schedule regular checkups with your doctor to monitor your healing and address any concerns.
• Rest: Get as much rest as possible.
• Nutrition: Focus on eating a healthy, balanced diet to support your recovery and breastfeeding (if you choose to).
• Exercise: Gradually increase your physical activity as recommended by your doctor.
• Emotional Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to family, friends, or a support group for emotional and practical support.

How to Create a Healthy Lifestyle After Giving Birth

• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
• Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, as recommended by your doctor.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: The substances have harmful effects on your baby’s development.
• Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Together, We’ll Make a Difference

Maternal health isn’t just a women’s issue; it’s a human issue. Every mom deserves the chance to bring her baby into the world safely. Through advocacy for better healthcare solutions, supporting policies that prioritize maternal and child health, and addressing the root causes of maternal mortality, we’ll create a future where all moms thrive.

How To Support Maternal Health

While significant progress has been made, there’s still much work to be done. Maternal health support requires a collective effort from individuals, communities, and governments. Here are a few key ways we can all contribute:

1. Advocate for Better Health Systems

Improving maternal health outcomes starts with strengthening the health system. That includes increasing access to healthcare facilities, for timely care, and training more health workers to provide quality services.

2. Education and Awareness

Every mom deserves to know the early signs of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Education empowers women to seek timely care and make informed decisions about their health and that of their babies.

3. Community Support Networks

No mom should feel alone. Community support networks, from doulas to mom groups, provide the emotional support and resources needed to go through the complexities of pregnancy and motherhood.

A Gentle Reminder for Moms

To all the moms reading: You matter. Your health matters. And whether you’re expecting your first child or dealing with the postpartum period, you deserve care, support, and love.