Top Concerns for Women: Before, During, and After Childbirth

The obstacles new mothers face can seem to be endless, but as a health care community, we are in a position to bring real change in support for the entire process. As a hospital, health system, health plan, or pharma company, you know how important it is to reinforce a healthy prenatal and postpartum experience for women. Here are some of the key areas that women need more support during and after their pregnancies, and how healthcare organizations can help:

Prenatal

• Getting the proper prenatal care – Women who do not receive prenatal care are 3-4 times more likely to die than women who do due to complications that may arise during childbirth. High-quality prenatal care is important not just to monitor complications, but to stay healthy throughout pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum.
• Complications – The thought of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or miscarrying are just a few complications that can keep anyone up at night. Educate women on symptoms and general information surrounding these complications so they know what to identify and encourage them to seek the prenatal care that they need.
• Changes in Daily Life – With pregnancy comes with a plethora of changes: morning sickness, dietary restrictions, new supplements to take, adjustments in workout schedules, and many more. With so much to keep in mind, it’s important to support women during this time of change.
• Preparation – Especially for first-time moms, pregnancy can be an intimidating time of preparation for the new family addition. Offer education on what to prepare and when, so mom feels ready and can focus on this special time. 

In Hospital

• A comfortable stay – No woman wants to deliver in a hospital that is understaffed, uncomfortable, or inefficiently managed. Ensure a comfortable stay by managing staff time well and fulfilling comfort requests quickly and seamlessly.
• An easy discharge process – Foggy with lack of sleep and a new bundle of joy, women want to have a simple, easy discharge process. The ability to refer back to discharge resources from home at their own convenience brings major added value.

Postpartum and Caring for Baby

• Caring for Baby – Through what seems like a never-ending series of “firsts”, moms are looking for guidance in caring for their newborn. Offer information and support to guide mom through things like breastfeeding, baby milestones, and warning signs for health issues.
• Mental Health – In the United States, about 11-20% of women experience the symptoms of postpartum depression. New moms need to know how what the signs are, and the reassurance to know that they are still a good mom even if they are asking for help.
• Weight Change – Many women struggle with the changes in their body during and after pregnancy. Tips for a healthy lifestyle will encourage mom to have confidence in these changes that are completely normal.
• Postpartum Doctor Visits – Just like prenatal visits, postpartum doctor appointments are important to ensure the health of a mom. Specifically, a six-week postpartum appointment helps to identify any concerns after delivery, future health risks, and a transition to primary care. Remind your patient of how important these visits are and encourage her to follow through.
• Work/Life Balance – Returning to work can be a struggle for most moms who may face separation anxiety or difficulty balancing both work and caring for their baby. This can take a toll on her health or emotional state. Nurture her through this time so she can feel balanced and fulfilled.

Leave a comment below and tell us – what are some of the other ways that healthcare community can support moms and moms-to-be?

GoMo Health is a leader in population health and patient engagement. Millions of moms and babies are in need of a support network to provide guidance and information, so they can better manage their health and life at home with their new family. We can deliver by offering them safe, easy to follow, personalized guidance. We are stacking GoMo Health’s tower of Concierge Care® solutions that are reforming the healthcare journey for Mother and Baby.