Good day bloggers. Welcome to Pearl Women’s Hospital blog site. Being in practice at Deccan Pune, Pearl Women’s Hospital has gathered special attention for its unique approach. Natural birthing does not happen naturally in most cases. Antenatal care is the most important aspect. On behalf of safe motherhood day, which falls on 11th April, we are offering the pearls of our wisdom gathered during our practice to build competent mothers and healthy children. Motherhood is often seen as the rebirth of women as mothers. The 9 months and even before, the body has an intelligent way to create, develop and protect the fetus. Amazingly unique Placenta serves as a lifeline to nourish and communicate. If birth is life, how can it be a reason for death? Let’s deal with the responsibility as it can be avoided and every life can be saved. The factors that can cause problems in safe motherhood are Iron Deficiency Anemia, Gestational Diabetes, Depression and Anxiety, Fetal Problems, High Blood Pressure Related to Pregnancy, Infections, Nausea and vomiting, Miscarriage, Placental issues, Preeclampsia or preterm labour. The reproductive health of both partners needs to be at its best. Age remains the main factor which impacts motherhood to a great extent. There are a good number of easy, effective treatments available for the above problems. Screening well in time for such concerns will save the baby as well as the mother of any ill effects. Basic understanding of normal and not-so-normal during pregnancy is necessary. The real concern is, motherhood is not merely an affair of 9 months. Safe motherhood is the goal of national interest too. Motherhood is a cherished experience, and ensuring the safety and well-being of mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum is paramount. In India, maternal health has been a significant concern, with high maternal mortality rates and inadequate access to quality healthcare for pregnant women. However, efforts are being made to improve safe motherhood practices in the country. One crucial aspect of safe motherhood is antenatal care, which involves regular health check-ups during pregnancy. This allows healthcare providers to monitor the health of the mother and the growing fetus, identify any potential risks or complications, and provide appropriate interventions. It is important for pregnant women to seek antenatal care early in their pregnancy and follow the recommended schedule of visits for optimal outcomes. Another essential component of safe motherhood is skilled birth attendance. Delivering in a healthcare facility with a skilled birth attendant, such as a doctor or a trained midwife, significantly reduces the risk of maternal and neonatal mortality. It ensures that any potential complications during childbirth can be promptly addressed, and the mother and baby receive appropriate care. Postpartum care is equally important for safe motherhood. Mothers need adequate rest, nutrition, and emotional support during the postpartum period. It is crucial to seek postpartum care from healthcare professionals and follow their guidance on breastfeeding, contraception, and self-care to promote optimal recovery and well-being. Access to quality healthcare services is a critical factor in ensuring safe motherhood. Pregnant women should have access to affordable and quality healthcare facilities, skilled healthcare providers, and essential medications. Promoting awareness about the availability and importance of maternal healthcare services among communities, especially in rural and underserved areas is important. According to the world health organization, WHO, India has achieved groundbreaking success in reducing maternal mortality. We are marching towards, Zero Preventable Maternal and Newborn Deaths and high-quality of maternity care delivered with dignity and respect. In nutshell, let us hit upon the important points to enjoying safe motherhood. Plan to schedule to visit the doctor after missing of the period. This will ensure the antenatal check-up and guidance Food is not only nutrition but also the building block of the future foundation of a baby, so eat healthy food. Foods that should be included in meal planning are milk and dairy products like curd, buttermilk, and paneer which are rich in calcium, proteins and vitamins. Eat fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies, which offer ample vitamins, iron, and folic acid. Cereals, whole grains and pulses provide adequate proteins. For non-vegetarians, protein-rich sources are meat, egg, chicken or fish, which also offer vitamins and minerals. Earlier, baby pictures on the walls were put up, now entire house need to take baby steps towards a stress-free environment, and jovial interactions. Enough rest for the would-be mother, so the body can repair & build the new cells. Maintaining regular visits to clinics or primary healthcare centres is a must and mandatory. In conclusion, safe motherhood is crucial to maternal health. Ensuring safe motherhood means ensuring all women have access to the information and services they need to go safely through pregnancy and childbirth. It includes: • Education on safe motherhood • Prenatal care • Promotion of maternal nutrition • Adequate delivery assistance in all cases • Provisions for obstetric emergencies along with referral services for pregnancy, childbirth and pregnancy complications along with Postnatal care. Safe motherhood requires adequate antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and postpartum care. Easily approachable quality healthcare services are also essential. Pregnant women should seek timely and appropriate healthcare during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby. By prioritizing safe motherhood practices, we can reduce maternal mortality rates and promote the health and well-being of mothers in India. Let the simple fact be known to all, that Reproductive health is a lifetime concern for both women and men and it can be safeguarded and corrected by adopting simple measures as stated above.
