
What is Maternal Health Care?
Maternal health care refers to the medical care and support women receive during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. This care ensures the health and well-being of both mother and child throughout pregnancy and after delivery.
Maternal health care includes:
- Prenatal care: Care during pregnancy.
- Intrapartum care: Care during childbirth.
- Postpartum care: Care and support in the weeks after childbirth.
The main goal of maternal health care is to monitor the mother’s physical and mental well-being. It also ensures the healthy development of the fetus. This care starts early in pregnancy and continues through childbirth and the postpartum period. It includes regular checkups, important screenings, nutritional advice, and emotional support.
In this guide, we will cover each stage of maternal and child health care. From prenatal care to newborn health, this series will provide detailed advice for a healthy pregnancy and beyond.
Why Maternal and Child Health Care Matters
The benefits of proper care begin during pregnancy and continue through the child’s development. Regular prenatal checkups allow doctors to detect health issues early. This reduces the risk of complications for both pregnancy and childbirth. It helps mothers stay physically and emotionally healthy, giving them the support they need at every stage of pregnancy.

For the child, maternal care helps prevent problems like low birth weight, birth defects, and preterm birth. Proper nutrition and regular checkups ensure the baby’s organs and brain develop well. This early care is key to supporting the child’s physical and mental growth.
Research shows that children whose mothers receive consistent care during pregnancy are more likely to reach important developmental milestones. They tend to be healthier, have better brain function, and face fewer health problems later in life. By investing in maternal health care, we are investing in the future success and well-being of the next generation.
Prenatal care is a part of maternal health care. It focuses on the health of both the mother and baby during pregnancy.
Prenatal Health Care
Prenatal care refers to the medical care and support a woman receives during pregnancy. Regular visits help healthcare providers monitor the pregnancy and spot potential risks early. Detecting problems like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure early can prevent more serious health issues later.

Women should start prenatal care as soon as they know they are pregnant. Ideally, it’s best to see a doctor before getting pregnant. This is called pre-pregnancy care or preconception planning. If that’s not possible, begin prenatal visits as soon as possible after confirming pregnancy.
Babies born to mothers who do not get prenatal care are three times more likely to have a low birth weight. They are also five times more likely to die than babies born to mothers who receive proper care.
For healthy women aged 18 to 35, a prenatal care schedule is:
- Every 4 to 6 weeks for the first 32 weeks of pregnancy.
- Every 2 to 3 weeks from the 32nd to the 37th week.
- Every week from the 37th week until delivery.
Women over 35 or with high-risk pregnancies will likely need more frequent visits.
During pregnancy, several tests are essential. Ultrasounds monitor the baby’s growth and check for any abnormalities. Other important screenings include blood pressure checks, glucose tests for gestational diabetes, and blood tests to check for infections or nutrient deficiencies.
Staying healthy during pregnancy involves more than medical checkups. It’s important to eat a balanced diet and stay physically active. Staying hydrated, resting, and keeping regular prenatal appointments are key to maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
Nutrition and Exercise During Pregnancy
The body needs extra nutrients to support the growing baby. Calorie needs change throughout pregnancy as the body’s demands increase. For women who are at a healthy weight before pregnancy, the general guidelines are:
- First trimester (first 12 weeks): No extra calories are needed.
- Second trimester (13 to 26 weeks): About 340 extra calories a day are recommended.
- Third trimester (after 26 weeks): About 450 extra calories a day are necessary.
These extra calories support the baby’s growth and give the mother the energy she needs as pregnancy progresses.
Iron is one of the most important nutrients during pregnancy. It helps carry oxygen to the baby and prevents anemia in the mother. Iron-rich foods include lean meats, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals (Oatmeal, Bran flakes, etc). Calcium is also critical for the baby’s bone and teeth development. Pregnant women should consume dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese or plant-based sources like almonds and tofu.
Folic acid is another key nutrient. It helps prevent birth defects in the baby’s brain and spine. Foods like beans, lentils, and leafy greens contain folic acid. However, most pregnant women are advised to take a folic acid supplement. Taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily can reduce the risk of neural tube defects by 70%.

Exercise
Along with a nutritious diet, physical activity is important during pregnancy. Safe exercises like walking or prenatal yoga improve circulation, reduce stress, and prepare the body for childbirth. It’s important to avoid intense activities, heavy lifting, or exercises that involve a high risk of falling.
Pregnant women should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Aerobic activities involve moving large muscles (like the legs and arms) in a rhythmic way. Moderate intensity means you are moving enough to raise your heart rate and start sweating, but you can still talk without difficulty.
In addition to a balanced diet, prenatal vitamins are often recommended. They provide key nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium to ensure both mother and baby get what they need.
Regular prenatal checkups can provide guidance on specific nutritional needs and exercise plans tailored to each stage of pregnancy. With good nutrition and regular exercise, the body is better prepared for the physical demands of labor and delivery.
Labor and Delivery
Labor and delivery mark the final stage of pregnancy. Labor is divided into three stages. During these stages, the body prepares for birth, delivers the baby, and then delivers the placenta. For first-time mothers, labor usually lasts between 12 to 24 hours. For those who have given birth before, labor is often shorter, around 8 to 10 hours.
The first stage is the longest. It starts with early labor, where contractions help the cervix open and thin out. The second stage is the pushing phase, where the baby is delivered. The third stage, called afterbirth, is when the placenta is delivered.

Labor involves continuous contractions of the uterus. These contractions help the cervix dilate and allow the baby to move through the birth canal.
It’s important to prepare for labor ahead of time. Many women create a birth plan. This plan may include decisions about pain management, who will be present, and preferences for after the baby is born.
While labor can be unpredictable, having a plan and understanding the process can help reduce anxiety. Being prepared makes the experience smoother for both mother and baby. After delivery, a new journey begins for both mother and baby. The postpartum period is crucial for recovery and care.
Postpartum (Postnatal) Care
The postpartum period, also called the fourth trimester, is a crucial time for both mother and baby. It starts right after childbirth and usually lasts six to eight weeks. During this time, a mother’s body goes through many physical and emotional changes. It’s important for mothers to rest, stay hydrated, and eat nutritious foods to regain strength. The body needs time to heal from labor and delivery.
Common physical symptoms during the postpartum period include:
- Vaginal soreness: This is common after a vaginal birth, especially if stitches were needed.
- Weight loss: Gradual weight loss happens as the body adjusts after pregnancy.
- Vaginal discharge (lochia): This bleeding can last for several weeks.
- Contractions: Post-birth contractions, known as afterpains, help the uterus return to its normal size.
- Leaking urine: Weak pelvic muscles may cause temporary incontinence.
- Hemorrhoids and bowel movements: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum or anus. Constipation and hemorrhoids can occur due to the strain of delivery.
- Sore breasts: Breastfeeding can cause soreness and swelling in the early days.
- Hair loss and skin changes: Hormonal changes may lead to temporary hair thinning and skin pigmentation changes.
Emotional symptoms are also common during this period:
- Baby blues: Mild mood swings, irritability, and tearfulness are normal in the first few weeks.
- Postpartum depression: Persistent sadness, fatigue, or trouble bonding with the baby may be signs of postpartum depression. It’s important to seek help from a doctor.
- Mood changes: Hormonal shifts can cause mood swings, so emotional self-care is important.
These symptoms are common and often go away on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to contact a doctor.
Mothers also need to focus on caring for their newborns. Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies to the baby. Establishing a feeding routine early can benefit both mother and baby.
Postpartum checkups with a healthcare provider are essential for monitoring both the mother’s recovery and the baby’s growth. By focusing on physical and emotional health, mothers can ensure a smooth recovery and a healthy start for their baby.
As postpartum recovery continues, the focus should shift to caring for the newborn.
Neonatal Care
Neonatal means “newborn”. Neonatal care is essential in the first four weeks of a baby’s life. During this time, the baby’s body adjusts to life outside the womb, so proper care is critical for healthy development.

Feeding
Feeding is one of the most important parts of neonatal care. Newborns need frequent feedings to support their rapid growth. Breastfeeding is recommended because it provides essential nutrients and antibodies to protect against infections. For mothers who cannot breastfeed, formula feeding is a healthy alternative. It’s important to establish a feeding routine early, with newborns typically feeding every 2 to 3 hours.
Immunizations
Immunizations help protect newborns from serious diseases. Many vaccinations start within the first few weeks, so parents should follow the immunization schedule provided by healthcare professionals.
Sleep Routines
Sleep routines are a critical part of neonatal care. Newborns sleep a lot, usually between 16 and 18 hours a day. However, they often sleep in short bursts, waking up for feedings. Creating a safe sleep environment is important. Babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep, and the crib should be free from blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Thermoregulation
Thermoregulation is important because newborns have trouble regulating their body temperature. Dress the baby in layers appropriate for the room temperature and avoid overheating. Skin-to-skin contact also helps maintain body temperature, especially right after birth.
Hygiene
Hygiene is key to preventing infections. Regular diaper changes, gentle baths, and keeping the umbilical cord area clean and dry are essential hygiene practices.
By focusing on feeding, immunizations, sleep, temperature regulation, and hygiene, parents can help ensure their newborn has a strong and healthy start in life.
Sum Up
Pregnancy and motherhood bring incredible changes, both physically and emotionally. While the journey has its challenges, it also brings moments of joy, growth, and empowerment. Nurturing new life can strengthen a mother’s confidence and resilience, creating strong bonds with her baby.
By caring for both physical and mental health, mothers can create a loving and healthy environment for their baby to thrive.
There is much more to learn about maternal and child health. For more information on topics like prenatal care, postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, and newborn care, continue reading the rest of this series.
FAQs
1. What should I avoid during pregnancy?
You should avoid alcohol, smoking, and certain medications. Also, limit caffeine and avoid foods like raw fish, deli meats, and unpasteurized dairy products.
2. When should I start prenatal care?
It’s best to start prenatal care as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. Early checkups help monitor your health and the baby’s development.
3. How often should I have prenatal checkups?
For healthy pregnancies, prenatal visits are typically every 4 to 6 weeks in the first 32 weeks, every 2 to 3 weeks from 32 to 37 weeks, and weekly from 37 weeks until delivery.
4. What are common symptoms during postpartum recovery?
Common symptoms include vaginal soreness, weight loss, discharge (lochia), and breast soreness. Emotional changes, like baby blues or mood swings, are also common.
5. How much sleep do newborns need?
Newborns usually sleep 16 to 18 hours a day, often in short bursts. Safe sleep practices, like placing babies on their backs, are crucial.
6. What should I do if I feel depressed after childbirth?
If you feel persistent sadness or have trouble bonding with your baby, talk to your healthcare provider. Postpartum depression is treatable, and getting support is important.
7. What services are included in maternal health care?
Maternal health care includes prenatal checkups, nutritional guidance, ultrasounds, screenings for gestational conditions, childbirth support, and postpartum care.
8. What is an ultrasound scan?
An ultrasound scan uses sound waves to create an image of the baby inside the womb. It helps monitor the baby’s growth and detect any abnormalities.
9. What is the current maternal mortality ratio (MMR)?
The global MMR is about 223 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020, but this varies significantly by region and country. According to the Registrar General of India (RGI), the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) in India was 97 per 100,000 live births in 2018-20.
Further Reading
To learn more about maternal and child health, explore the next articles in this series:
For more details about our approach to providing accurate and trusted information, visit our Writing and Review Process page. We focus on delivering well-researched, reliable content for our readers.
References
- https://www.who.int/health-topics/maternal-health
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prenatal_care
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9182711/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430821/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Childbirth
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK304191/
- https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/maternal-mental-health