Delivery care refers to the medical attention provided to a woman during childbirth. It can include:
- Antenatal care: The care provided to a pregnant woman before childbirth, including regular checkups, monitoring the health of the mother and baby, and education on childbirth and newborn care.
- Intrapartum care: The care provided to a woman during labor and delivery, including monitoring contractions, pain relief, and delivery of the baby.
- Postpartum care: The care provided to a woman after childbirth, including monitoring her recovery, checking on the newborn baby, and providing breastfeeding support.
Delivery care is essential for ensuring the health and safety of both mothers and babies. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), skilled attendance at every birth can significantly reduce maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity.
There are two main types of delivery care: facility-based delivery and home birth.
- Facility-based delivery: This is the most common type of delivery care, where the woman gives birth in a hospital or birthing center under the supervision of a doctor or midwife.
- Home birth: This is a type of delivery care where the woman gives birth at home with the assistance of a midwife. Home birth is only considered safe in low-risk pregnancies.
The type of delivery care that is right for a woman will depend on her individual circumstances and preferences. It is important for women to discuss their options with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision.
