Safe Motherhood

1. It is important for all families to be able to recognize the warning signs of problems during pregnancy and childbirth and to have plans and resources for getting immediate skilled help if problems arise. (Supporting Information)
2. A skilled birth attendant, such as a doctor, nurse or trained midwife, should check the woman at least four times during every pregnancy and assist at every birth. (Supporting Information)
3. All pregnant women need particularly nutritious meals and more rest than usual throughout the pregnancy. (Supporting Information)
4. Smoking, alcohol, drugs, poisons and pollutants are especially harmful to pregnant women and young children. (Supporting Information)
5. Physical abuse of women and children is a serious public health problem in many communities. Abuse during pregnancy is dangerous both to the woman and the foetus. (Supporting Information)
6. Girls who are educated, healthy and have a good diet during their childhood and teenage years will have fewer problems in pregnancy and childbirth. (Supporting Information)
7. Every woman has the right to health care, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. Health care providers should be technically competent and should treat women with respect. (Supporting Information)