Building a Postnatal Village:

How Women's Fourth Trimester Needs Shape NOH's Service Design

The fourth trimester.

1. The initial three months postpartum, underscoring the pivotal phase of adaptation for both the neonate and the maternal figure.
2. A whirlwind of newborn bliss, sleep deprivation, and intense emotional and physical adjustments.

While the initial outpouring of congratulations fades, new mothers often find themselves navigating this transformative journey in relative isolation. But what if this didn't have to be the case? What if, instead of feeling adrift, mothers were enveloped in a supportive village, tailored to their specific needs and fueled by their own voices?

At Network One Health (NOH), we believe this is not just a dream, but a reality we can co-create together. Our recent poll, showcasing the voices of? pregnant mothers, provides a treasure map leading us towards postnatal support that truly resonates.

Asked what services would enhance the experience of care we provide them, all 120 women in one of our WhatsApp Mom Support Group participated; all of them!

Let's delve into these insights and see how they Shape our refining of the collaborative approach to mother's well-being in this crucial window.

Listening to Mamas, Building the Village:

The top request? A resounding cry for in-person postnatal sessions. This isn't just a desire for check-ups; it's a yearning for personalized guidance, practical support, and emotional reassurance. Imagine lactation consultants and pediatricians working alongside doulas and midwives, crafting sessions that address specific concerns, be it breastfeeding challenges, baby care anxieties, or the emotional rollercoaster of new motherhood.

But the focus isn't solely on the baby. Our poll revealed a deep need for mom-focused support. Think yoga classes designed for postpartum bodies, gentle exercise routines, and even workshops on body positivity and self-care. These initiatives acknowledge the immense physical and emotional changes mothers undergo, empowering them to reclaim their bodies and prioritize their well-being.

The whispers of isolation resonated too. Many mamas yearned for social events to connect with other NOH moms. This isn't just about socializing; it's about building a community, a shared space to exchange advice, offer support, and find solace in knowing they're not alone. Coffee mornings, playgroups, or online forums become a lifeline, a safety net woven from shared experiences and understanding

Doulas and Midwives: Pillars of Support:

Our poll's insights illuminate the crucial role of doulas and midwives. Their expertise extends beyond the clinical, offering mothers:

• Continuous, non-judgmental support: Think late-night lactation guidance, emotional support during baby blues, and expert reassurance on infant milestones.
• Empowerment and education: Breastfeeding workshops, infant care demonstrations, and personalized self-care strategies equip mothers with confidence and knowledge.
• A bridge to community: Doulas and midwives connect mothers, fostering belonging and reducing isolation through peer support groups, mom-and-baby outings, or virtual communities.

NOH's Multidisciplinary Advantage:

At NOH, we don't just value doulas and midwives; we integrate them seamlessly into our multidisciplinary team. This approach ensures mothers receive:

• Holistic care: A blend of medical expertise from pediatricians and OB-GYNs, alongside the emotional and practical support of doulas and midwives. Imagine comprehensive check-ups with breastfeeding guidance, infant massage workshops, or personalized mental health support.
• Continuity of care: Mothers build trusting relationships with their dedicated team, eliminating the disconnect of fragmented care. Imagine the same doula or midwife supporting a mother throughout pregnancy, labor, and the fourth trimester.
• Individualized attention: We understand each mother's journey is unique. Our team tailors postnatal support plans to specific needs, preferences, and cultural backgrounds. Think customized meal plans, culturally sensitive emotional support strategies, or flexible scheduling options.

A Village Built on Listening:

Our polling isn't just about filling service gaps; it's about co-creating a village based on women's voices. NOH's poll is a map, and women's needs are the compass guiding us towards building a truly supportive system. From personalized postnatal sessions to mom-focused workshops and nurturing communities, we stand alongside our clients, empowered by their insights and committed to their well-being in this transformative time.

Remember, mothers thriving isn't just a personal victory; it's a societal gain. When mothers feel supported, their children flourish, families strengthen, and communities prosper.?

Join us at NOH and together let us build this village, brick by brick, fueled by women's needs and guided by their voices. Together, we can illuminate the fourth trimester, transforming it from a period of isolation to a journey of empowered growth, for mothers, families, and the communities we serve.

SISTER LILIAN CENTRE Marié van Heerden Margreet Barnardt (Wibbelink) Busamed Emmanuel Majachani Esther Rockson Molefi Pholo Beverley Chigwanda Nonhlanhla Naku Board of Healthcare Funders