3.1 Advancing maternal and prenatal health
As we saw in the first section of this module, over the nine months of pregnancy numerous maternal experiences have the potential to impact fetal health outcomes. Although immature, the brain at birth has already been influenced by the environment that the growing fetus experienced. For example, teratogens, maternal stress and maternal malnourishment are some of the factors that can influence the developing brain of the fetus. Therefore, a discussion on healthy brain development must include ways to ensure pregnant people have healthy prenatal experiences. This is an important component towards providing a healthy foundation for societal health and well-being.
Dr. Fraser Mustard wrote the Introduction of Early Years Study 3 and made the point that, “investing in expectant mothers and their young children is a powerful equalizer and a key tool for economic and social stability” (Mustard, 2011, p. 7). Read the following excerpt to see more of Mustard’s message explaining why paying attention to maternal and child health is fundamental for healthy societies.
The following article from the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child provides valuable background information on the impact of early exposure to neurotoxins (substances that are toxic for brain development). Pages 10 – 12 outline important program and policy implications to reduce fetal exposure to neurotoxins and promote healthy brain growth before and after birth and during the early years of development.
This report discusses the need to balance personal and public responsibility in the protection of young children. What are your thoughts on this “balancing act”? What do you see as the pros and cons of legislation and leaving things to individual parental choice?
Think about the community and country in which you live. Are there any programs or policies that would affect healthy brain development that you would like to see implemented?
Dr. David Butler-Jones, former Chief Public Health Officer for Canada, discusses the need to consider health before individuals even conceive.
It is clear that maternal health during pregnancy impacts outcomes for children and that parents’ preconception lifestyle factors also matter.
Do programs or supports exist in your community to support healthy lifestyle choices for those who may become pregnant?
Supporting maternal-child health globally
In September 2000, the Millennium Summit was held at The United Nations headquarters in New York. This meeting involved world leaders from 189 nations who came together to address common issues and concerns that impact the health of populations. Eight goals were established at the time. In 2017, the agenda for sustainable development was updated. This Agenda is a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity and strives to strengthen peace and freedom. There are now 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets that build on the Millennium Development Goals and continue what was not achieved (United Nations, 2024; World Health Organization, 2018). There are three major integrated and unseparable dimensions: economic, social, and environmental.
These goals are as follows: 1. No poverty, 2. Zero hunger, 3. Good health and well-being, 4. Quality education, 5. Gender equality, 6. Clean water and sanitation, 7. Affordable and clean energy, 8. Decent work and economic growth, 9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 10. Reduced inequalities, 11. Sustainable cities and communities, 12. Responsible consumption and production, 13. Climate action, 14. Life below water, 15. Life on land, 16. Peace, justice and strong institutions, 17. Partnerships for the goals (United Nations, 2024).
Member nations have committed to work towards meeting these goals by the year 2030 (United Nations, 2024).
Dr. John Tomaro, former director of health for the Aga Khan Foundation, is involved in promoting maternal and child health in countries around the world. In the next clip, Tomaro refers to the original Millenium Development Goals 4 and 5.
Building on the SDGs, the Every Woman Every Child strategy is based on the Global Strategy for Women’s and Children’s Health 2016-2030. It suggests that there are substantial societal benefits to investing in women’s and children’s health. Their interactive website highlights startling data and trends. As you look at the recommendations and resources, think about whether health initiatives in your community are reaching mothers and women of childbearing age.
For more information on the SDGs and the progress being made, explore the following website.
Working with children and parents
People who work with children and families may have opportunities to provide information and answer questions parents and prospective parents have about health, growth and development. It is incumbent on these professionals to ensure that the information they provide is accurate. The following readings, from Abilio, are excellent examples of resources targeted to parents.
This next reading, from the National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health, is a comprehensive look at Indigenous traditions and knowledge around food and other health topics such as sleeping and dental and vision care.
What are some ways you can have an impact on maternal and prenatal health in your life and/or in the work you do?
Are you in a position to promote awareness about the importance of health and well-being throughout pregnancy and the post-natal period?
When working with families, parents and/or parents to be, professionals should have a clear understanding of factors that might affect each family and their approach to family life. For example, are there traditional teachings and practices to consider? Are there particular opportunities or challenges? The next reading discusses considerations related to parenting in First Nations communities. It refers to the cycle of life as a “sacred journey” and is organized in four phases: pre-conception, pregnancy, birth, and parenting. It includes information on historical factors and challenges, as well as suggestions and resources to support culturally sensitive services for First Nations families.
Living in poverty can have many different negative effects on health and well-being and there are specific implications for the prenatal period. To learn more, click on the link below to access information on low income and pregnancy in the Encyclopedia on Early Childhood Development.
