Maternal Health

Description of SVG

FIP’s maternal health programme is a dedicated initiative aimed at addressing maternal healthcare needs and reducing disparities. This programme is committed to tackling the pressing issue of maternal health by understanding the complex web of health inequities that impact not only mothers but also their infants and children.

Programme objectives: 

  1. Understand health inequities and their effects on maternal health, but also their infants/children.
  2. Identify opportunities and best practices that improve equity in maternal health.
  3. Develop tools and resources to support pharmacy-based maternal health care. ​

 

The Effective Utilization of Pharmacists in Improving Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH)

2013

This policy statement focuses on the vital role of pharmacists in enhancing maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). It highlights the significant contribution pharmacists can make to the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals, particularly in reducing child mortality and improving maternal health. The statement details how pharmacists can support pre-pregnancy care through education and health promotion, provide comprehensive care during pregnancy, and ensure effective postnatal care. It also defines the scope of maternal and child health and emphasises the importance of pharmacists in preparing, obtaining, distributing, and disposing of medical products safely. The policy advocates for pharmacists to be actively involved in medication therapy management, patient health assessment, and the provision of health-related information, aiming to improve overall MNCH outcomes.

 

Reducing Inequities in the Health and Pharmacy Workforce: The Importance of Maternity and Parental Leave Policies

30 May 2024, 14:00 - 15:30 CEST 

Pregnant women and mothers often encounter bias by being viewed as inconveniences or liabilities by their employers. Their ability to perform quality work is also presumed to be compromised due to their pregnancy or motherhood responsibilities. Insufficient support and workplace policies exacerbate these challenges, including the absence of flexible work arrangements and adequate accommodations like maternity leave.
These inequities impact women across various sectors; however, they are particularly evident within the health and pharmacy workforce since women represent over 70% of the workforce in the health and social sectors1. To address these issues and inequities, it is crucial to challenge and dismantle the gender biases and stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination against pregnant women and mothers. EquityRx and FIPWiSE (Women in Science and Education) are hosting a digital event to highlight and address some of these issues, particularly those related to maternity leave policies.