Rediscovering the "M" in "MCH": maternal health promotion after childbirth.
Although maternal mortality is not a major health concern in the United States, evidence is accruing that after 6 weeks postpartum mothers continue to face mental and physical health, lifestyle, and parenting concerns. Exemplar areas for enhanced maternal health promotion after childbirth include (a) lifestyle changes in exercise, nutrition, and smoking, and (b) psychosocial well-being, particularly mood and body image. Research on health of women after childbirth supports rethinking the scope and duration of maternal health promotion.
Walker
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School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, 78701-1499, USA. walkerl@mail.utexas.edu
Wilging
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D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001828:Body Image; D019052:Depression, Postpartum / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008427:Maternal Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011181:Postnatal Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D014481:United States