Benefits of Prenatal Care and Breastfeeding
The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is particularly relevant to when applied to preventive measures taken during pregnancy, when a few extra ounces of birth weight can save a child’s life. During pregnancy, simple precautions can help avoid catastrophic results; giving up smoking, for instance, drastically reduces the risk of miscarriage and pre-term labor.
The March of Dimes reports that if all women took adequate folic acid before conception and during pregnancy, the number of babies born with a neural tube defect could drop by as much as 70 percent. The physical and emotional benefits of proper prenatal care to a mother and child are underscored by a strong company case for offering prenatal wellness benefits. Nationwide’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Michael Moore, estimates costs to care for one baby delivered prematurely could approach $500,000.
First steps in fostering a prenatal program:
• Invite the March of Dimes to present information about prenatal health at an staff member brownbag lunch or breakfast meeting.
• Hold prenatal care information classes for interested employees at lunchtime.
• Provide educational materials about the effects of alcohol, drugs and smoking on an unborn child.
• Provide incentives for adopting healthy lifestyles during pregnancy.
• Provide prenatal programs and education as part of the company healthcare package.
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