The Maternal Health Crisis
Every day, approximately 800 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 66% of these deaths. The Caribbean, while better, still has maternal mortality rates 3-4 times higher than North America.
The primary drivers? Delayed access to care, insufficient prenatal monitoring, and lack of skilled birth attendants in rural areas.
How Telehealth Supports Pregnant Women
Remote Prenatal Monitoring
Regular prenatal check-ups are essential but difficult to access in rural areas. Telehealth enables:
- •Blood pressure monitoring — Preeclampsia screening from home
- •Weight tracking — Monitoring healthy weight gain
- •Symptom assessment — Early identification of warning signs
- •Nutritional guidance — Diet advice specific to local food availability
High-Risk Pregnancy Management
Women with high-risk pregnancies (gestational diabetes, hypertension, multiple pregnancies) need more frequent monitoring. Telehealth consultations between in-person visits reduce gaps in care.
Postnatal Support
The postpartum period is critical and often neglected. Telehealth provides:
- •Breastfeeding support and lactation consulting
- •Postpartum depression screening
- •Newborn health assessment guidance
- •Family planning counseling
Home Nursing for Maternal Care
Ancestra Health's home nursing service connects mothers with qualified postnatal care nurses who can visit at home for:
- •Newborn care education
- •Wound care after cesarean delivery
- •Vital sign monitoring
- •Emotional support and assessment
Warning Signs Every Pregnant Woman Should Know
Seek immediate medical attention for:
- •Severe headache with blurred vision (preeclampsia)
- •Heavy vaginal bleeding
- •Severe abdominal pain
- •High fever (above 38°C / 100.4°F)
- •Reduced fetal movement
- •Swelling of face and hands
Our emergency SOS feature provides instant connection to medical help.
Register for prenatal telehealth support — every mother deserves quality care, wherever she lives.