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Maternal Health Awareness Day

Many people don’t realize that, among developed countries, the United States has the highest maternal mortality rates and, shockingly, it is the only advanced nation to have increasing maternal mortality rates in recent decades. Black women and indigenous women in the US are particularly at risk, with maternal mortality rates...

Body & Health Healthcare Women65

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Position your maternal health services, insurance, or wellness programs as part of the solution to America's maternal mortality crisis during January awareness month.

Relevance 65medium intent

Share preventable maternal mortality statistics and position your brand as a trusted resource for pregnant women and new mothers
Partner with healthcare providers and nonprofits to amplify maternal health education and access to WIC/MCHB programs
Highlight disparities in maternal mortality among Black and Indigenous women to drive equity-focused messaging and community support initiatives

History

Maternal Health Awareness Day has a history that dates back at least to 2018, which is the year that New Jersey became the first state to officially recognize this event.

The founding of the event was built through collaborative efforts of several different organizations including the Rutgers Medical School, Tara Hansen Foundation, and others, to spread awareness to help prevent maternal mortality.

In the years following, the size and scope of Maternal Health Awareness Day has continued to grow, adding in the support of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), the National Institute for Children’s Health Quality, as well as other organizations.

How to celebrate

Understand Facts About Maternal Health

An excellent way to show support and celebrate Maternal Health Awareness Day might be to learn a bit more about some of the statistics behind this health issue and then share them to raise awareness. Check out some of these important facts to get started with: Almost all maternal deaths and disabilities are preventable with proper medical careSome leading causes of maternal mortality include heart disease, stroke, hypertension, infection, blood loss, and preeclampsiaIn 2020, one maternal death occurred almost every two minutes Worldwide maternal mortality rates have dropped significantly since 2000 but, according to the CDC, the US has had an increase in recent years

Access Maternal Health Resources

Women who are pregnant or who have recently given birth may be interested in various resources that offer assistance for the best possible health during pregnancy and childbirth and afterward. Talk to a local medical provider or nurse midwife. Or get access through government programs meant to help mothers, including the WIC Program (Women, Infants, and Children) as well as various initiatives of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) Other events that can be celebrated throughout the year in relationship to this one include Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week in early May, Infant Feeding Day in early June, and NICU Awareness Month which takes place in September. Maternal Health: Key Facts and Global RealitiesMaternal health is a crucial indicator of the overall strength and equity of healthcare systems worldwide. While notable progress has been made over the past few decades, maternal mortality remains a serious global challenge, shaped by inequality, access to care, and social conditions. The following facts highlight both encouraging advancements and persistent gaps in maternal healthcare across different regions.Maternal Mortality Decline Globally, maternal mortality has significantly decreased over the last few decades. Between 2000 and 2023, there was a 40% decline in maternal mortality rates worldwide. This improvement demonstrates the impact of international health initiatives and advancements in medical practices aimed at protecting maternal health. Disparities in Maternal Health Care In the United States, African American women are four times more likely to die due to pregnancy-related complications compared to their white counterparts. This stark disparity highlights the urgent need for systemic changes in healthcare provision and access. Preventable Maternal Deaths The majority of maternal deaths are preventable with proper medical care. Despite being a developed nation, the United States continues to face challenges in reducing preventable maternal deaths, emphasizing the need for improved healthcare systems and policies. Maternal Health in Conflict Zones Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for about 70% of global maternal deaths, with conflict-affected areas experiencing maternal mortality rates of 504 per 100,000 live births. These figures reflect the impact of unstable conditions on healthcare access and quality.

FAQ

Did ancient civilizations have special maternal health practices?

Yes, for example, in Ancient Egypt, birthing stools were used to aid labor, while in Greece, midwives used olive oil as a soothing massage aid. These traditions show that even ancient cultures recognized the need for maternal health care during childbirth.

Are there traditional foods believed to aid postpartum recovery?

In many Asian cultures, seaweed soup is believed to help new mothers regain strength due to its high iron content. Similarly, in Mexico, atole—a warm drink made from corn—nourishes the mother, while spices are avoided as they are thought to cause discomfort during breastfeeding.

Why is maternal health considered a human rights issue globally?

Maternal health is increasingly seen as a rights issue, especially as many maternal deaths are preventable. The World Health Organization views accessible maternal care as essential to a country’s healthcare obligations, emphasizing that equitable healthcare access is critical for reducing global disparities.

How does maternal health awareness affect family dynamics?

Awareness encourages family involvement in prenatal care, promoting better support for expectant mothers. Family education about signs of complications and postpartum support reduces stress on mothers, improving outcomes for both mother and baby.

Are mental health screenings common for expectant mothers globally?

Some countries like the UK and Canada have routine mental health checks as part of prenatal visits. In the U.S., however, these screenings are still not standard, despite research showing that addressing perinatal mood disorders improves both maternal and infant health.

What environmental factors impact maternal health?

Polluted air and contaminated water can significantly impact pregnancy, increasing risks like preterm birth and preeclampsia. Research shows that urban areas with poor air quality have higher rates of pregnancy complications, underlining the importance of clean environments for maternal health.

How do financial concerns impact maternal health?

For many mothers, financial stressors prevent them from seeking timely prenatal care. In the U.S., for instance, uninsured or underinsured women often skip necessary appointments, increasing the risk of complications. Financial support systems are crucial to make maternal care accessible.

What is the role of fathers or partners in maternal health?

Fathers and partners play a vital role, from providing emotional support to attending medical appointments. Studies show that partners involved in the prenatal phase help reduce maternal stress, which is beneficial for pregnancy health and can lead to smoother postpartum recovery.

How does traditional postpartum care differ from modern practices?

Traditional practices, such as extended rest periods, often emphasize slower recovery, while modern medicine may encourage quicker physical activity. Many experts now recommend integrating both approaches, advocating for rest but also gentle activity to support recovery.

What role does technology play in advancing maternal health?

Mobile health apps and wearable devices help monitor maternal health indicators like blood pressure and glucose levels, allowing earlier detection of issues. Telehealth also provides accessible prenatal support for those in remote areas, bridging gaps in healthcare availability.