Expectant mothers in Wairoa are being encouraged to engage with a midwife in the early stages of pregnancy to ensure they and their baby receive the best possible start.
Hawke’s Bay District Health Board midwifery director Jules Arthur, says a project aimed at improving engagement in early pregnancy was being rolled out across the DHB’s region – and its team of midwives in Wairoa were proactively getting the message out to educate expectant mothers on ways to support a healthier pregnancy by ticking off five key things to do within the first 10 weeks.
“Studies have shown that women are not as well informed as thought about what to do in early pregnancy – especially our Maori, Pacifica and young teenage pregnant women,” said Ms Arthur.
“In Wairoa our team of midwives are working hard to raise community awareness about a Top 5 list that women can follow which will help support healthy outcomes during that vital early stage in pregnancy,” she said.
Wairoa midwife Alison Williams says early monitoring and care for mother and baby is key.
“The top 5 things of what to do if you’re pregnant doesn’t change regardless of your age, ethnicity, where you live or how many times you’ve given birth, it’s all about ensuring mum and baby are looked after as best as they possibly can be from day 1,”said Ms Williams.
“We are here to provide that free advice and service,” she said.
The Top 5 list is:
1. Find your midwife - go to www.findyourmidwife.co.nz
2. Consider early pregnancy screening
3. Take iodine and continue folic acid
4. Remember to eat well and exercise
5. Avoid smoking, drinking and drugs.
The DHB’s midwives based at Wairoa Hospital & Health Centre can be contacted on Phone 06 838 9701.
Expectant mums can also call or text them on Phone 027 454 5380
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