The Maternal and Child Health Program was conceptualized by POWER foundation and SLNI in response to the pressing need for improved maternal and child healthcare practices within the community. Recognizing the importance of prenatal care and the challenges faced by expecting mothers, the foundation embarked on a mission to empower women with essential knowledge and resources for a healthy pregnancy and childbirth experience.
PROGRAMME
The Mother and Child Health Program commenced promptly at 8:14 am with an opening prayer, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings. Following the prayer, the coordinator initiated the program with a warm welcome and introduction, outlining the objectives of the session.
Program activities
Dr. Chinonso, the esteemed facilitator, commenced with a comprehensive speech emphasizing the significance of antenatal care and the benefits of registering with a health facility during pregnancy. Dr. Chinonso further elaborated on the importance of exercise for both maternal and fetal health.
Educational Sessions
Dr. Chinonso delivered enlightening lectures on tuberculosis and pneumonia, raising awareness among the expecting mothers about these prevalent health issues and the preventive measures they can take. The discussions were interactive, encouraging active participation and addressing any queries the attendees had.
Exercise Session
Following the educational sessions, Dr. Chinonso led the women through eight different exercises tailored specifically for pregnant women. These exercises aimed to promote physical well-being and alleviate common discomforts associated with pregnancy.
Distribution of Gift Items
As a gesture of support and encouragement, gift items including diapers, routine drugs, and birthing kits were distributed among the participants. These items were carefully selected to aid the women during and after delivery, contributing to the promotion of mother and child health and well-being.
PROGRAM OUTCOME
The program witnessed an overwhelming response, with 30 women in attendance, surpassing the targeted number of 25. The success of the program was evident as participants expressed their gratitude towards the foundation for organizing such a beneficial initiative. The positive feedback received underscores the impact of the program on the women’s well-being.
COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION
The program received commendation from the management of Sancta Maria Hospital, further validating its effectiveness. Community mobilization efforts, including the use of a town crier, resulted in a high turnout, demonstrating the efficacy of outreach strategies in engaging the target audience.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the Mother and Child Health Program was a resounding success, thanks to the collaborative efforts of all involved stakeholders. The program’s objectives were aligned with national health priorities and international guidelines on maternal and child health, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices and holistic care approaches. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the foundation sought to create a sustainable impact on the health and well-being of mothers and their children, ultimately contributing to the realization of global health goals. Against this backdrop, the Maternal and Child Health Program was conducted with a firm commitment to empowering women, strengthening healthcare practices, and fostering healthier communities for generations to come.
