3 Ways to Support Maternal-Infant Health
As a mom, there's nothing more important than caring for your little one. But it's also essential to take care of yourself physically and mentally. That's why maternal-infant health is a crucial issue that needs our attention.
One of the most common mental health issues that affect mothers is postpartum depression (PPD). While PPD can affect any mother, teenage mothers are at a higher risk. Up to 25% of teenage mothers experience PPD, which is twice as high as the rate for adult mothers. This statistic highlights the need for all mothers, especially young moms, to prioritize their mental health and seek support when needed.
So, what can we do to promote maternal-infant health? Here are three things to keep in mind:
1. Self-care is key.
As moms, we often put our own needs last. But taking care of yourself is essential for your well-being and your baby's. Make sure to prioritize self-care activities like exercise, meditation, and eating well. Even just a few minutes of self-care each day can go a long way in promoting mental and physical health.
2. Seek support.
Motherhood can be challenging, and it's okay to ask for help. Whether it's from friends, family, or healthcare professionals, seeking support can make a big difference in managing the stress and challenges of motherhood. Consider joining a support group or seeking counseling if you need extra help.
3. Build a strong bond with your baby.
A strong bond with your baby can help promote their emotional and psychological development. Engage in activities like skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, and talking to your baby to encourage a strong bond and create a nurturing environment.
Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health. So if you're experiencing symptoms of PPD or other mental health issues, don't hesitate to ask for help.
It's also important to remember that maternal health issues can impact both mother and baby. Conditions like pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and postpartum hemorrhage can have severe consequences for both mom and baby. Seeking medical care and following healthcare provider recommendations is essential for managing these conditions and promoting maternal and infant health.
Finally, let's remember the importance of celebrating and supporting other moms. Motherhood can be tough, but together, we can create a community of support and encouragement. So next time you see a fellow mom struggling, offer a kind word or gesture. You never know how much it might mean to her.
Maternal infant health is a critical issue that deserves our attention and care. By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and building a strong bond with our babies, we can promote our own mental and physical health and our babies' development. So let's care for ourselves and each other, one mom at a time.
Join us for our annual Spring Wellness Event: Grounded in Grace!
You'll have the chance to meet our incredible community partners like Catherine's Health Center, learn more about mental and physical maternal health, and participate in a yoga/meditation session led by The Feral Yogi.
If you're looking for a fun way to add some self-care to your calendar, look no further.
We hope to see you there! Reserve your ticket today at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/graces-table-spring-wellness-event-grounded-in-grace-registration-580637712027
