MICN Launch/Maternal Health Education Awareness

Medical professionals discussed the importance of family planning, emphasizing its role in improving maternal and child health outcomes. Family planning allows individuals and couples to anticipate and attain their desired number of children and the spacing and timing of their births. This session covered various family planning methods, including:

• Natural Methods: Such as fertility awareness-based methods, which involve tracking menstrual cycles to determine fertile days.
• Barrier Methods: Including condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps, which physically prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
• Hormonal Methods: Such as birth control pills, patches, injections, and implants, which regulate or stop ovulation.
• Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Both hormonal and copper IUDs were discussed as long-term, reversible options.
• Permanent Methods: Including tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men, which provide permanent contraception.

  Attendees learned how to choose the best family planning method based on individual needs, health status, and lifestyle preferences. The discussion also included information on the benefits of family planning, such as reducing the risk of unintended pregnancies, improving maternal and child health, and empowering women to make informed reproductive choices.

The benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months were highlighted, along with practical advice for new mothers. Exclusive breastfeeding means that the infant receives only breast milk, without any additional food or drink, not even water. The session covered several key points:

• Nutritional Benefits: Breast milk provides all the essential nutrients an infant needs for growth and development during the first six months of life.
• Immune System Support: Breastfeeding helps protect babies from infections and diseases, as breast milk contains antibodies and other immune-boosting components.
• Bonding: The physical closeness and skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding strengthen the bond between mother and baby.
• Cost-Effective: Breastfeeding is a low-cost way of feeding infants, eliminating the need for formula and reducing healthcare costs due to fewer illnesses.

Experts provided new mothers with practical tips on how to establish and maintain breastfeeding, manage common breastfeeding challenges, and seek support when needed. The importance of community and healthcare support systems in promoting and sustaining exclusive breastfeeding was also emphasized.

Experts provided comprehensive information on caesarean sections (C-sections), addressing when they are necessary, the procedure itself, and recovery tips for mothers. Key points included:

• Indications for C-Sections: Medical reasons for C-sections were discussed, such as complications during labor, fetal distress, multiple pregnancies, and certain medical conditions of the mother or baby.
• Procedure: Attendees learned about the steps involved in a C-section, from preparation to the surgical procedure and post-operative care.
• Recovery: Post-surgery recovery tips were provided, including managing pain, caring for the surgical incision, and gradually resuming normal activities.
• Risks and Benefits: The potential risks and benefits of C-sections compared to vaginal births were discussed, helping mothers make informed decisions about their birthing options.

The session aimed to demystify C-sections, reduce anxiety, and ensure that mothers feel supported and well-informed regardless of their birth plan.

The challenges and health risks associated with adolescent pregnancy were discussed, along with strategies for prevention and support for young mothers. Key discussion points included:

• Health Risks: The session highlighted the increased health risks for both adolescent mothers and their babies, including higher rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and complications during delivery.
• Social and Economic Impact: The broader social and economic consequences of adolescent pregnancy were addressed, such as interrupted education, limited job opportunities, and increased poverty rates.
• Prevention Strategies: Experts discussed effective prevention strategies, including comprehensive sex education, access to contraceptive services, and community programs that support young people in making informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
• Support for Young Mothers: The importance of providing support to adolescent mothers was emphasized, including access to prenatal care, parenting education, and social services to help them navigate the challenges of early parenthood.

The session aimed to raise awareness about the issues surrounding adolescent pregnancy and promote a supportive environment for young mothers to ensure better health and social outcomes for them and their children.