A GUIDE TO HEALTHY PREGNANCY MANAGING AILMENTS AND FINDING SOLUTIONS

A_Guide_to_Healthy_Pregnancy

IMPORTANT PREGNANCY-RELATED FACTORS AFFECTING MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH

Bahadır Koşan

Bursa Uludağ University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bursa, Türkiye

Koşan B. Important PregnancyRelated Factors Affecting Maternal and Child Health. Çetin A, ed. A Guide to Healthy Pregnancy: Managing Ailments And Finding Solutions. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.99-109.

ABSTRACT

Maternal and child health is shaped by a multifaceted combination of behavioral, biological, environmental, and socioeconomic determinants. The gestational period is a vital stage that influences developmental outcomes for both the mother and fetus. Contributing risk factors include insufficient prenatal care, chronic illnesses, nutrient inadequacies, environmental contaminants, low socioeconomic status, and psychosocial stress. Deficiencies in micronutrients and poor nutritional intake elevate the likelihood of intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, and preterm delivery, while maternal obesity and gestational diabetes can result in macrosomia and delivery complications. The absence of infant wellness evaluations often signifies inadequate prenatal care. Additionally, environmental hazards, economic disparities, and underserved populations are major contributors to negative maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This study highlights key factors that influence both fetal and maternal well-being during pregnancy and examines corresponding preventative measures and evidence-based solutions aimed at ensuring optimal pregnancy results.

Keywords: Maternal health; Maternal-child health services; Prenatal care; Socioeconomic factors; Obstetric labor complications

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