.png)
Did you know that American women are ten times more likely to die during pregnancy than a mother in Poland? Or that Washington D.C. has one of the highest child death rates in the country? New research shows that the United States ranks lower than many other developed nations when it comes to maternal and child health.
More U.S. Maternal/Child Health Statistics
Save the Children recently ranked the best and worst countries in the world to be a mother. It was found that the United States ranks 61st in the world when it comes to maternal health, and that women in the U.S. face a significant risk of passing away during childbirth or pregnancy – the highest of all the developed nations included in the report. Save The Children analyzed data from 179 countries and looked at five different factors when accumulating their statistics: education, political status, economics, a child’s well-being, and maternal health. The U.S. placed 33rd when all of these factors were taken into account, slipping two spots when compared to last year’s list.
However, it wasn’t all bad news. The U.S. performed better when it came to educational status (16th in the list), and economics (9th in the list). The top five countries in the report? Norway, Finland, Iceland, Denmark, and Sweden respectively. Somalia ranked lowest in the list.
Preventing Pregnancy Health Issues
Although some of these statistics might be alarming, it illustrates the importance of having good healthcare before, during and after pregnancy in order to improve maternal and child health. Regular prenatal care can improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy, and you will be able to take a number of steps before you give birth. Choosing a pediatrician is just as important, and can help suffering maternal/child health. A trained and qualified pediatrician will:
Treat life-threatening conditions in early childhood
Provide appropriate care to prevent the progression of illnesses
Help you to determine the best healthcare choices for your child
Develop personal health plans for you and your child
How Pediatricians can Help
A pediatrician is considered one of the most important roles in the healthcare industry, and can be extremely beneficial when it comes to your child’s development. They will ensure that your child has the age-appropriate screening tests (for example, vision tests and blood pressure checks), and can explain the results of any procedures they have had. What’s more, a pediatrician will record the care that your child has received, and make a referral to a specialist if necessary. They will also be able to discuss any important healthcare issues with you as a parent.
Kids First Pediatrics in Raleigh, NC provides quality prenatal care services to mothers and children before, during and after pregnancy. For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
*This article is informational but is not a substitute for medical attention or information from your provider.
Comments