The World Health Organisation (WHO) is calling on governments, healthcare providers, and communities to strengthen efforts in reducing preventable deaths among mothers and infants. Far too many women are losing their lives during childbirth. An alarming number of newborns are not surviving beyond their first month. The need for change is critical.
The recent report “Trends in maternal mortality” by UN and WHO shows significant progress. There has been a 40 per cent global decline in the maternal mortality ratio between 2000 and 2023, offering hope for newborn survival improvements.
It showed that since 2016, the pace of improvement slowed down significantly. An estimated 260,000 women died in 2023 due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth, affecting the newborn population worldwide.
More than 90 per cent of all maternal deaths occurred in low and lower-middle-income countries in 2023, said the report. These areas also face high newborn mortality.
Further, the report has also highlighted the Covid-19 pandemic’s impact on maternal survival, which indirectly affected newborn health.
In 2021, an estimated 40,000 more women died due to pregnancy or childbirth. The total increased to 322,000 from 282,000 in 2020, raising concerns about newborn outcomes.
Besides the direct complications caused by Covid infection, the deaths were also due to widespread interruptions to maternity services, impacting care for the newborn.
THE FOCUS
The call is clear. Healthcare systems must adapt to address immediate complications of childbirth. They also need to manage interconnected challenges. These challenges include malnutrition, mental health disorders, and the growing impact of non-communicable diseases, which all influence newborn health.
Medical advancements continue to play a pivotal role. At the same time, traditional practices like yoga are gaining attention for their holistic support during and after pregnancy.
HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MATERNAL WELLNESS
Prenatal and postnatal yoga offers an array of benefits rooted in ancient Indian philosophy. Yoga promotes a sense of balance, calm, and connection — elements during the journey of motherhood, ultimately benefiting the newborn.
Before childbirth, practicing gentle yoga helps expectant mothers prepare both mentally and physically. Breathing techniques enhance oxygen flow to the baby and aid in stress management. Asanas (poses) strengthen the pelvic floor, improve posture, and reduce common pregnancy-related discomforts such as backache and swelling. Meditation and mindfulness nurture emotional resilience, offering mothers a sense of inner stability amidst rapid changes. Yoga enhances flexibility. It strengthens pelvic muscles and improves posture. All of these are beneficial as the body undergoes rapid changes. Simple asanas like Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose), Cat-Cow stretches, and Pranayama (breathwork) help maintain calm and balance and potentially improve newborn outcomes.
After delivery, postnatal yoga becomes a gentle path toward recovery. It supports the healing process, helps rebuild core strength, and improves posture compromised by childbirth and breastfeeding. It addresses postnatal depression by encouraging relaxation and emotional well-being through mindful movement and breath work. What makes yoga particularly valuable is its adaptability. Sessions can be tailored to individual needs, whether a mother is recovering from a C-section.
Tips for Safe Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga:
Always practice under a certified yoga instructor with experience in maternal yoga.
Avoid deep twists, strong inversions, and strenuous exercises.
Listen to your body – comfort and safety come first.
Combine yoga with balanced nutrition and hydration.
(Dr Naresh Purohit is principal investigator for Indian Medical Academy for Preventive Health. The views expressed here are that of the author)
