Perinatal support: a woman-centered approach

WHY IS THE PROGRAMME NEEDED?

Perinatal support is the care and assistance provided to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. This crucial phase in a woman's life involves significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes, thus comprehensive support is essential for promoting positive outcomes for both mother and child (Menage et al., 2016). A woman-centered approach to perinatal support prioritizes the needs and preferences, of the woman, ensuring that care is respectful, individualized, and empowering. The woman-centered approach recognizes each woman’s unique journey through the perinatal period. The care should be medically sound, and empathetic, according to her specific needs. This model emphasizes the active participation and decision-making of the woman, fostering a sense of autonomy and control over her childbirth experience. It also acknowledges the importance of cultural competence and ensures that practices are sensitive to diverse cultural backgrounds (Davis-Floyd, 2016).

Evidence has shown that woman-centered perinatal support can lead to better maternal and neonatal outcomes. Continuous labor support, effective communication, and nonpharmacological pain management techniques can be used (Bohren et al., 2016). the need for medical interventions and improve the woman’s overall childbirth experience. In the postpartum period, support programs can significantly influence maternal mental health, breastfeeding success, and the transition to parenthood (Nyirenda et al., 2020.

The shift towards a woman-centered approach requires integration and advocacy for multidisciplinary teams, midwives, doulas, lactation consultants, and mental health professionals. These teams work collaboratively to provide holistic care to women during the perinatal period. Additionally, this approach promotes the inclusion of family and partners in the care. A woman-centered approach to perinatal support is fundamental in advancing maternal and newborn health. Prioritizing the needs and preferences of women and ensuring that care is respectful, individualized, and culturally competent, can enhance the perinatal experience and positive health outcomes for mothers and their babies.