TABLE OF CONTENTS:
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines maternal health
as “the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the
postnatal period.”
Mental Health - This aspect of health is comprised of one's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. While this segment of a person's overall health may often be overlooked, it remains a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of life and how one experiences a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and satisfaction in day-to-day living.
Physical Health - Though there are numerous aspects related to one's physical health, key determinants include the following:
Sleep: As a study from the Clocks & Sleep journal finds, although it is recommended for adults including pregnant women to receive 7-9 hours of sleep per night, many expectant mothers report experiencing less sleep, increased wakefulness, and excessive daytime sleepiness as compared to non-pregnant populations.
Nutrition: While daily nutritional requirements vary between individuals, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises that pregnant women keep the following goal in mind: " . . . to balance getting enough nutrients to support the growth of your fetus and maintaining a healthy weight."
Physical Activity: According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd ed., it is recommended that pregnant or postpartum women should aim to obtain at least 150 min. moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity interspersed throughout each week.
Relaxation: The Australian organization Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) recommends the following relaxation techniques to alleviate stress during pregnancy: breathing exercises, guided mental imagery/visualization, and guided muscle relaxation.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2023, June). FAQs: Nutrition during pregnancy. ACOG. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/nutrition-during-pregnancy
Cannon, S., Hayman, M., & Lastella, M. (2023). Pregnant Women's Attitudes and Beliefs towards Sleep and Exercise: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Clocks & sleep, 5(1), 34–44. https://doi.org/10.3390/clockssleep5010004
Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE). (n.d.). Stress and relaxation strategies in pregnancy. COPE. https://www.cope.org.au/expecting-a-baby/staying-well/stress-in-pregnancy/
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAHMSA) (2023, January 4). What is Mental Health? SAHMSA. https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018). Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf#page=79
World Health Organization (WHO). (n.d.). Maternal Health. WHO. https://www.who.int/health-topics/maternal-health#tab=tab_1