Maternal health refers to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.

While we tend to focus on kids at Emerge, we understand that sometimes it can feel like the mother’s health gets pushed to the back burner once the baby is born. But when you aren’t feeling your best, you might not be able to support and love on your family in the ways you’d like!⁠

January 23rd is National Maternal Health Day!

National Maternal Health day is observed to bring awareness that each year in the United States, about 700 women die during pregnancy and almost all women of color are disproportionately impacted by this crisis. Prenatal care is important for both the mother and the baby’s health, especially in the first trimester. When a mother doesn’t get prenatal care, their baby is three times more likely to have a low birth weight and if there are any other risk factors, the number of prenatal visits may increase.

Things to Discuss With Your Health Care Provider:

• Any major health conditions (diabetes, hypertension, or obesity)
• Any symptoms you are experiencing (in detail)
• Any medical care you received after delivery
• Scheduling and maintain postpartum care
• Any feelings of depression, anxiety, and mood swings

If something doesn’t feel right to you, it is important that you discuss it openly with a doctor who is available to talk about any of your concerns. It can be physical or emotional.

You know your body best! If you experience something that seems unusual or that worries you, please do not ignore it. And make sure your doctor doesn’t ignore it either!

We work alongside some amazing maternal healthcare providers, including a pelvic floor physical therapist and a maternal nutritionist. Click on the images below to learn more about these services and how they may be able to help you!

Resources

Kerry Jones is a registered dietician who offers nutrition and lactation counseling for mothers and their families!