Question
Why is maternal health so important?
Answer
Maternal health is essential as it directly affects the well-being of mothers and their children, impacting physical, emotional, and social aspects of life. Each year, nearly 3.7 million live births occur in the United States, with many women facing significant challenges postpartum. These challenges include physical and emotional strain, difficulty balancing responsibilities, and feelings of isolation. Factors like inadequate self-care, postpartum depression, and pelvic floor dysfunction further complicate the recovery process and overall maternal experience.
Postpartum depression is a critical concern, affecting between 1 in 10 and 1 in 7 women within the first year after childbirth, yet it often goes undiagnosed due to stigma and fear of disclosure. Additionally, urinary incontinence is linked to an increased risk of postpartum depression, emphasizing the importance of addressing pelvic health as part of comprehensive maternal care. By supporting maternal health holistically—addressing physical, mental, and social factors—women can better navigate this transformative period and thrive.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Overview And Importance Of Pelvic Health: Postnatal Pelvic Health Virtual Conference, presented by Jessica McHugh Conlin, PhD, OTR/L, BCP, CPT.
