Cultural rituals and traditions play a crucial role in nurturing new moms, leading to improved maternal health and survival. Molly Hahn, a mother of three, followed a Chinese philosophy of rest and nourishment for 45 days after giving birth to ensure her well-being and that of her newborn. This practice, borrowed from traditional Chinese medicine, involved spending 15 days in bed, 15 days on the bed, and 15 days near the bed.
In the United States, there is a growing awareness of the importance of postpartum care, as two-thirds of maternal deaths occur during this period. However, the standard postpartum care in the US is often limited to a six-week checkup with healthcare providers, leaving many women without adequate support and resources during the critical postpartum period.
To address this issue, there is a call for profound federal improvements to fourth-trimester care, prioritizing those most at risk and providing early postpartum visits to women for ongoing care. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists now recommends that women are seen within three weeks of delivery and receive comprehensive care at 12 weeks postpartum.
Furthermore, home visits by midwives or nurses have been shown to improve mental health and breastfeeding outcomes while reducing healthcare costs. Midwives could provide 80% of maternal care worldwide and avert 41% of maternal deaths, highlighting the importance of their role in maternal healthcare.
In conclusion, supporting new moms during the postpartum period is essential for maternal health and well-being. By following cultural traditions, seeking early postpartum care, and advocating for themselves, women can set themselves up for success in the critical weeks following childbirth.
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