What expecting moms should consider for a healthy pregnancy
Pregnant women in the U.S. are increasingly experiencing adverse maternal and birth outcomes. Watch this for expert advice on what expecting moms should consider for a healthy pregnancy.
Pregnant women in the U.S. are increasingly experiencing adverse maternal and birth outcomes. Watch this for expert advice on what expecting moms should consider for a healthy a pregnancy.
According to the March of Dimes, about 10 %of the 35000babies born in Kansas in 2021 arrived before 37 weeks of gestation, which can increase the risk for experiencing physical disabilities and developmental impairments throughout their lives.
Here to talk to us today about maternal care before, during, and after pregnancy. Is Lucia Jones, the Associate director of the Maternal program with UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Kansas.
This morning is an important topic of pregnancy. It's an exciting time for families, right? But can also be overwhelming. But can also be overwhelming. What is an important factor for moms to consider for a healthy pregnancy?
“You know, I think that the most important consideration is to schedule that first prenatal appointment, then continue care through pregnancy and after delivery. The first prenatal appointment is key - first to confirm the pregnancy, and second to develop a healthy pregnancy plan.” Lucia Jones, the Associate Director of the Maternal Program with UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Kansas tell us.
“So the pregnancy plan empowers the mother, by recieving information for what to expect. And also allowing the mom to share with the provider what they want their pregnancy experience to look like.”
A key statistic: Nearly 20% of women do NOT make it to their 1st prenatal appointment during their first trimester. As many as 40% of women do not participate in a postpartum appointment.
“As a result, it leaves many mothers little guidance in recovery time after giving birth.” Lucia Jones tells us, going on, “We at UnitedHealthcare are very concerned about this - and are working hard - to ensure that our member families have the best outcome possible and also the best experience.”
“We also know and understand that many of these families are in need of resources so they can focus on having that healthy pregnancy. And that there are many programs, like those we have at UnitedHealthcare, but also across our Kansas community, that can support a mom through and after pregnancy, like Safe Asleep classes and Breast Feeding Support to name a few.”
How can the community better support families in obtaining those resources that improve the maternal outcomes that you have spoken about?
“It is very important for all of us to understand that health is impacted by more than what happens at just a doctor’s office. Lack of resources can make. it harder for moms to be healthy - but also to access the care that they may need.”
“For families that may be struggling, I would recommend that you please talk to your provider about the issues that you are having. Reach out to your insurance company - we have resources and programs that can help you. And also connect with community-based organizations that can help you with what your family is needing.”
“In the case of UnitedHealthcare, we have our own Community Health Workers, AND we also partner with community-based organizations and send our members to those programs as needed. Community Health Workers are healthcare-trained workers who live in - and understand - the community that they serve. They provide support at the one-to-one level, can help a mother navigate the system, and also connect that mom to resources in her community.”