New and expectant mothers in Hanover receive health checks, psychosocial support

The Ministry of Health & Wellness took its maternal outreach to the Ramble Health Centre in Hanover on Thursday, where new and expectant mothers received health checks and psychosocial support to ensure a safe and healthy mother and baby.

Minister of State, Krystal Lee, said the outreach is part of ongoing efforts to engage pregnant and lactating mothers directly, particularly in communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

“This maternal intervention… is a programme that we have been doing for the past three weeks,” she said, noting that “this is our eighth stop, so far.”

“You can get your ultrasound checks. We have brought some care packages, some hygiene packages. We have brought toys for the children,” she told the mothers in attendance.

She explained that the focus of the outreach is to support mothers during a period that can be physically and emotionally challenging.

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“When you are at this stage, it’s a vulnerable state and we know that external factors can easily trigger you into a state that can affect you and your baby,” the State Minister said.

Lee emphasised the importance of ensuring that mothers remain healthy so they can properly care for their children.

“You are holding the future of our nation,” she pointed out.

During her address, the State Minister acknowledged the dedication of healthcare workers who continue to serve communities despite being affected by the hurricane.

“Our health workers, too, have faced circumstances, terrible circumstances, just as you did from the hurricane, but still they find [the strength] to come out each and every day… to ensure that you get the very best care, you and your babies,” she told the gathering.

Noting the damage to the Ramble Health Centre, Lee implored expectant mothers to continue attending clinic at the Mount Peto Health Centre in the parish.

“It’s important that you keep your clinic dates,” she said, cautioning that “if you wait until you are all the way ready to almost have the baby… there may be complications that could have been prevented”.

The State Minister indicated that mothers whose homes were damaged by the hurricane are being identified for additional support by the Government.

She assured mothers of the Ministry’s continued presence and support.

“We’re here with you today, walking this journey. Remember healthy mothers make healthy, healthy babies,” she said.

- JIS News