Maternal Health Awareness creates a time to spotlight the health, safety, and wellbeing of mothers during and after pregnancy. These tips are simplified for caregivers, expectant mothers and new moms to help prioritize maternal health every step of the way and help reduce instances of preventable maternal mortality. 

A: The General &  Physical Health of the Mother.

During Pregnancy

1. Attend All Antenatal Appointments

Regular checkups help monitor your blood pressure, baby’s growth, and detect conditions like preeclampsia or anemia early as well as any other infections that may be present. 

2. Take Prenatal Supplements

Folic Acid will helps prevent neural tube defects. 

Iron supplements help combat pregnancy-related anemia.

Calcium and Vitamin D support bone health and fetal development.

Take supplements as prescribed.

3. Monitor Weight Gain

Gain is expected, but excessive weight can increase risk of gestational diabetes and high blood ppressure. Consult your doctor on weight issues.

Engage in moderate exercise to maintain fitness.

4. Stay Hydrated and practice healthy eating.

Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Avoid raw or undercooked meat, unpasteurized dairy, and excessive caffeine.

Eat small, frequent meals of balanced diet. (small food portions can help to combat pregnancy related nausea.)

Avoid drugs and alcohol before and during pregnancy, and during breastfeeding. 

During Childbirth

1. Choose a Safe Delivery Environment

Deliver with a skilled birth attendant (midwife, doctor) in a facility that can handle emergencies like hemorrhage or obstructed labor.

2. Know Your Labor Signs

Watch for regular contractions, water breaking, and vaginal bleeding. Go to the hospital early if you have risk factors.

3. Pain Management Options

Explore available options: breathing techniques, epidural, or natural methods. Having a birth plan helps but stay flexible.

4. Prevent Infections

Ensure clean tools and hygienic delivery environment. Prevent bacterial transmission with screening and treatment during labor.

After Birth (Postpartum)

1. Prioritize Postnatal Visits

Have your first checkup within 6 weeks—or sooner if you had a C-section or complications. Health issues can still arise after birth.

2. Watch for Danger Signs

Seek urgent care if you experience:

  • Heavy vaginal bleeding
  • High fever
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with vision changes
  • Signs of postpartum depression

3. Rest and Nutrition

  • Sleep when the baby sleeps.
  • Eat protein-rich meals and hydrate, especially when breastfeeding.
  • Avoid strenuous activities until cleared by your provider.

4. Breast and Pelvic Health

Check for sore or cracked nipples and treat early.

You may do Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to  help prevent incontinence and support recovery.

5. Birth Spacing and Contraception

Discuss family planning. WHO recommends waiting at least 18 months before the next pregnancy to lower health risks. Proper birth spacing lowers the risk of complications.

B: Maternal Mental Health: Awareness and Importance

1. Understand the Emotional Journey

Pregnancy and motherhood bring major hormonal, physical, and social changes. Feelings of anxiety, fear, or sadness are common—but prolonged or intense symptoms should be discussed with your health provider.

2. Watch out for signs of Postpartum Depression.

Up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression (CDC). It goes beyond “baby blues” and includes persistent sadness, irritability, lack of interest in the baby, or feelings of worthlessness. Early diagnosis and support are key.

3. Don’t Suffer in Silence

Speak up during checkups if you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or emotionally numb.

4. Risk Factors to Watch out for: 

  • Previous history of depression or anxiety
  • Lack of support from partner/family
  • Complications during pregnancy or delivery
  • Unplanned or high-risk pregnancies

5. Support Makes a Difference

Involve partners, friends, community health groups or seek professional help.

6. Basic Mental Wellness Tips for Mothers

  • Sleep and rest when you can
  • Practice deep breathing or mindfulness
  • Take breaks and ask for help—it's okay
  • Set small daily goals and celebrate progress
  • Stay connected to loved ones

7. Role of Healthcare Providers

Healthcare teams should screen for maternal mental health at every stage—antenatal, delivery, and postpartum. Early interventions can save lives.

N/B: Untreated maternal mental health issues can affect not just the mother, but also the baby’s development and family well-being.