Prioritizing Care for Mothers: Supporting Health, Well-Being, and Empowerment
Wendy Avalos, RN, BSN, MSN, FNP-C
“Prioritizing maternal care and raising awareness for mothers is essential to ensuring mothers across the nation receive the quality care they deserve,” states Wendy Avalos, FNP-C. It is important to shine a spotlight on the importance of prioritizing care for mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. Understanding the unique challenges mothers face is crucial to ensure moms everywhere feel empowered, supported, and informed.
Empowering Moms Through Education
“Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools an expectant mother can have,” states Avalos. Regular prenatal appointments are essential to monitor both mom’s and baby’s health, but they’re also an opportunity to learn about what’s happening during pregnancy, understand important health recommendations, and prepare for childbirth.
Educational resources like childbirth and parenting classes can be invaluable. The information shared at these classes can inform mothers of what to expect during childbirth, how to stay healthy while pregnant, and what to do when the baby arrives.
Prioritizing Mental Health
“Mental health is just as important as physical health during and after pregnancy,” states Avalos. The postpartum period can be especially challenging as moms adjust to hormonal shifts and new responsibilities. Every mother’s mental health journey is unique, and there are resources to help. Researching different therapy groups in the area or seeking mental health treatment from a healthcare professional are just a couple ways to stay proactive with managing stress. Mothers and pregnant women should feel encouraged to open about their concerns and fears in a supportive environment so they feel reassured throughout the process.
Supporting Breastfeeding Success
Breastfeeding can be rewarding but it can sometimes be a challenging experience. Some common breastfeeding problems that mothers face include sore nipples, blocked ducts, engorgement, and mastitis. Mothers may also struggle with latching, low milk supply, or finding a comfortable routine for them and their baby. No matter the issue, finding medical resources and advice can help ensure moms and their babies are staying healthy.
“If mothers are having these issues, it’s important to seek support from healthcare professionals or loved ones and remember that they are not alone in this experience,” states Avalos.
Advocating for Women’s Health
“Pregnancy and postpartum health care are not one-size-fits-all, and every concern is always valid,” states Avalos. Encouraging mothers to speak up and advocate for themselves is crucial to help their mental and physical well-being. New mothers may feel too embarrassed to communicate their difficulties with doctors—but their role as doctors is to support and educate women who need help. Healthcare professionals are there to listen and provide their guidance so mothers can feel confident and care for throughout this time.
Connecting with Local Resources
There are several support groups and resources available for moms-to-be or new mothers either online or in-person depending on individual needs. These groups can be organized to best fit the needs of different moms, including best location, specific interests, similar age range, or demographics. “Safe spaces to be open and honest can allow mothers to feel comfortable and confident while trying to navigate motherhood,” states Avalos.
For Every Mother
Every mother should receive compassionate, comprehensive care throughout the stages of motherhood. Whether it’s navigating the first pregnancy process or adjusting to life as a new mom, women should feel the support they deserve. During the month of May, let’s commit to advocating for moms, prioritizing their mental and physical health, and building a supportive community for families across the country.
About Wendy Avalos: Wendy Avalos serves as a Family Nurse Practitioner for Cheyenne OBGYN. Born in California and raised in Tatum, New Mexico, Avalos earned an MSN, FNP-C from the University of Texas at Arlington and a BSN from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. With over 14 years of experience in women’s health, she brings a passion and excitement to Cheyenne OBGYN. Avalos believes every woman deserves to feel heard, understood, and confident in their health journey. She is passionate about empowering women through education and enjoys serving the women of Cheyenne with compassion and expertise. Her goal is to provide a supportive environment for every patient where they will feel valued. In addition, she is fluent in Spanish and can communicate with Spanish-speaking patients. Outside of the clinic, she is a proud dog mom of two rescue pups. She also enjoys reading, trying new foods, exploring new places, and spending time with loved ones.