June 1 marked the beginning of the Atlantic Basin hurricane season. Forecasters predict 2020 to be the busiest in a decade. Being pregnant during hurricane season and the current COVID-19 pandemic may have women feeling more anxious. read more…

The Nurse-Family Partnership® (NFP) is an evidence-based, community health program that serves women who are receiving a state service such as Pregnancy Medicaid or WIC (Women, Infant and Children program) and are pregnant with their first child. Each vulnerable new mom is partnered with an experienced Bachelor’s prepared registered nurse by no later than the end of 28 weeks gestation in her pregnancy and receives ongoing nurse home visits until the child’s second birthday. Nurse-Family Partnership is a life-transforming partnership for the mother, her child and oftentimes, the entire family unit over the course of the 2-year enrollment period. The clients and the communities in which they live become stronger while saving money at the state, local and federal levels. read more…

Current data suggests that one- out of-seven new mothers suffers from a postpartum mood disorder. We know a mother’s health directly correlates to her child’s health, making it imperative to aid this population as quickly and effectively as possible. MHA GH is actively participating in local work groups on women’s maternal health initiatives. We are all working together as we try to determine best practices for patient communications. We work with providers – particularly pediatricians, as they are the ones who see mom most often – to screen for postpartum mood disorders and encourage mothers to reach out earlier if they need help. read more…

The extent to which early relational health is supported and strengthened influences children’s overall development as well as mother’s health. First3Years, a state-wide nonprofit, seeks to promote early relational health during the first three years of life, which serves as the foundation for all learning and well-being, including school readiness, physical health and development, and social emotional regulation. read more…

Maternal health in Harris County does not happen in a void. It occurs over time with healthy habits and healthy environments. Specifically, access to healthy foods plays a huge role in determining diet-related chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and even cancer. The Houston Food Bank has been committed to targeting nutrition as a key health determining factor for years. read more…

Welcoming a new baby is such a special time. For a mom, the postpartum period is precious as she adjusts to her family’s newest addition. This time is also referred to as the fourth trimester, which includes the first three months of the new baby’s life. read more …

In February, the City of Houston’s Health Department launched My Prenatal Promise, emphasizing the importance of prenatal care, syphilis testing for expectant mothers. Amid sharp increases of congenital syphilis, the campaign promotes education, testing, prevention and treatment. read more …