Bringing a new life into the world is often described as one of the most joyful experiences a pregnant person can have. But for too many pregnant people, the journey from pregnancy to birth is overshadowed by the stark reality maternal mortality. Perinatal mortality refers to the death of a woman and other pregnant women during pregnancy, childbirth or shortly after childbirth – often from preventable causes. The tragic loss of life in what should be a time of celebration raises a critical question: how can we better support pregnant people avoid this fate?

The issue of perinatal mortality is multifaceted, influenced by a variety of factors, including access to health care, socioeconomic status, and cultural practices. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, support and systemic change. In this article, we will explore the key strategies to help people who have recently given birth avoid perinatal mortality, emphasizing the importance of proactive healthcare, community support and policy advocacy.

The importance of early and consistent prenatal care

One of the most critical steps in preventing perinatal mortality is to ensure that pregnant people receive early and consistent prenatal care. Prenatal care allows caregivers to monitor the health of both the birthing parent and baby, identify potential risks and take preventive measures. Pregnant people who receive regular prenatal care are more likely to have better outcomes because complications can be detected and managed before they become life-threatening.

Early prenatal care includes routine checkups, screenings for conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, and discussions about the expectant parent’s general health and lifestyle. Caregivers can offer personalized advice on diet, exercise and stress management, all of which contribute to a healthier pregnancy.

However, access to antenatal care remains a significant barrier for many pregnant women, particularly those in low-income or rural areas. To combat this, it is important to expand access to affordable, high-quality maternity services and educate birthing people about the importance of attending all scheduled appointments. In addition, telehealth services can play a critical role in reaching those who may not have easy access to healthcare facilities, to ensure they receive the care they need throughout pregnancy.

Support laborers during and after childbirth

The period during and immediately after childbirth is when pregnant people are most at risk of experiencing complications that can lead to maternal mortality. Caregivers must be vigilant during this time and closely monitor the person for signs of distress, bleeding, or infection.

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of complications during childbirth is through the presence of skilled birth attendants, such as obstetricians, midwives and nurses. These professionals are trained to handle emergency situations and can make important decisions that can save the birth parent’s life. In addition to skilled nurses, it is important to have a well-equipped healthcare facility with the necessary resources to handle complications.

After delivery, the focus should shift to postnatal care. Many birth-related deaths occur in the days and weeks after delivery, often due to conditions such as postpartum haemorrhage, infections or blood clots. Regular checks after delivery are important to ensure that any complications are identified and treated promptly.

In addition, it is equally important to provide emotional and psychological support to new parents. Postpartum depression and anxiety can negatively affect a birth parent’s health and their ability to care for their child. Creating a supportive environment where birth parents feel comfortable discussing their mental health issues can lead to early intervention and better outcomes.

The role of community and family support

While health professionals play a critical role in preventing pregnancy and perinatal mortality, family and community support is equally important. Women and other pregnant people who have strong support systems are more likely to seek medical help when needed and follow through with recommended care.

Family members can help by helping with household chores, so the birthing parent can rest and recover after the birth. They can also provide emotional support and encourage the parent to discuss any problems or symptoms they may be experiencing. Educating family members about the signs of birth complications can make a significant difference, as they can help identify when the parent needs immediate medical attention.

Community programs can also offer valuable support by providing resources such as breastfeeding education, parenting classes, and mental health services. Peer support groups for new parents can create a sense of community and shared experience, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.

In many cultures, traditional customs and beliefs influence how birthing people approach pregnancy and childbirth. Community leaders and health care providers must work together to ensure that these practices do not inadvertently increase the risk of maternal mortality. For example, advocating safe birth methods and countering harmful practices can help protect the health of birthing parents and children.

Advocacy and policy change for long-term impact

To prevent maternal mortality, systemic changes are required at policy level. Advocacy for policies that ensure equitable access to health care—especially for marginalized communities—is critical. This includes expanding Medicaid coverage for prenatal and postpartum care, increasing funding for maternal health care programs, and addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in birth outcomes.

Additionally, policies that support paid parental leave, affordable childcare, and workplace accommodations for breastfeeding can significantly impact a birth parent’s health and well-being. These measures not only benefit the parent but also contribute to the healthy development of the child.

Efforts to reduce maternal mortality must also address the racial and ethnic disparities that exist in maternal health. For example, black and indigenous births are significantly more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their white counterparts. Addressing these disparities requires a commitment to health equity, including training caregivers in culturally competent care and ensuring that all birthing persons receive the respectful and dignified treatment they deserve.

Reducing the death rate of black births is imperative

The journey to new parenthood should be a time of joy, not fear. By ensuring early and consistent prenatal care, supporting birthers during and after birth, involving family and community in care, and advocating for systemic policy change, we can help reduce the risk of perinatal mortality and allow every parent to thrive.

As a society, it is our collective responsibility to support pregnant women during pregnancy and beyond, recognizing that prenatal health is a critical component of public health. By taking these steps, we can honor the lives of pregnant people everywhere and work towards a future where perinatal mortality is a rare occurrence rather than a resistant challenge.

This story was created using AI technology.