What specifically does maternal health refer to?

Maternal health refers to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, which typically extends up to one year after delivery, encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being.

Why is quality maternal healthcare important?

Quality maternal healthcare is crucial for preventing complications, reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, promoting healthy pregnancies, and ensuring positive long-term health outcomes for mothers and their children.

What are common challenges in maternal health today?

Common challenges include disparities in access to care, high maternal mortality rates in some regions, mental health issues like postpartum depression, and complications related to pre-existing health conditions or childbirth itself.

What types of services are typically included in maternal care?

Maternal care services generally include prenatal check-ups, nutritional guidance, childbirth education, labor and delivery support, postnatal care, breastfeeding assistance, and mental health screenings.