This survey is modeled on the annual monitoring tool that CDC and public health departments have used for the past 35 years of new mothers called PRAMS (Monitoring and Evaluation System). Pregnancy Risks).
Nearly 20 percent said they smoked, 13 percent drank alcohol and 10 percent had symptoms of depression since they gave birth..
These data, especially combined with data from mothers, provide a roadmap for where we need to focus our attention to improve the health and wellbeing of families during pregnancy. and after a child is born.
Researchers need partners at the state level who can secure funding and conduct this oversight for fathers in their state.
Not least at the national level, just as we have decades of federal funding to monitor the health of new mothers.
Legislature will be needed to build the public health infrastructure to monitor and respond to the needs of new fathers, to help them truly be there for their children and families..
Previous research has linked paternal involvement with improved maternal and newborn health, including longer breastfeeding duration, lower maternal depression levels, initiation of nursing care, and lower maternal depression. earlier prenatal care, greater use of postpartum care services, and improved child developmental, psychological, and cognitive outcomes.
Studies have also shown that men often see their childbirth as a lever to change their health habits.
Focusing on the role of fathers in the health of children and families, Dr. Garfield launched in 2020 the Family & Child Health Innovation Program (FCHIP) at Lurie Children’s.
The FCHIP team conducts research, disseminates clinically relevant findings, and advocates for improved family health policy.
Source: Medindia
