By Rowena Cruz RN Kristine Grace Serafines spoke in the pregnant woman during the recent Buntis Congress 2024 at the Octagon Crest Brgy. Ano...
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| RN Kristine Grace Serafines spoke in the pregnant woman during the recent Buntis Congress 2024 at the Octagon Crest Brgy. Anoling, Genereal Nakar, Quezon. (Photo from General Nakar, Quezon) |
GENERAL NAKAR, Quezon - Some mothers choose commercial baby food over sweet potato as a supplemental food for their six-month-old babies due to concerns about potential gas pain associated with sweet potato. While many mothers recognize the importance of using iodized salt for both their own and their babies' health, some lack a clear understanding of this crucial practice.
These were among the issues tackled during the recent Buntis Congress held at Octagon Crest Brgy. Anoling, Genereal Nakar, Quezon. spearheaded by the Municipal Health Office (MHO) led by Dra. Andessa ‘Doc Dess’ Mendoza RN, OHP, CFP in collaboration with registered nurses and midwives from the Rural Health Unit and the Department of Health.
The Buntis Congress, a municipal-level program, aims to provide comprehensive health services to pregnant women and couples planning to conceive. The event addressed critical concerns, such as misconceptions about baby food and the importance of iodized salt.
The event initiatives are vital in a country where, according to the World Bank, maternal mortality remains a concern, with 78 women dying per 100,000 live births due to pregnancy-related causes.
Over 70 pregnant women from across the town benefited from a range of free healthcare services, including pre-natal checkups, laboratory services, HIV screening, ultrasound, dental care, nutrition assessment and counseling, family planning counseling, and PhilHealth registration.
Informative discussions covered vital topics such as Pre-Natal Check Up, Risks of Pregnancy, Post-Partum Care, Facility-Based Delivery, Breastfeeding, Expanded Newborn Screening, National Immunization Program, Family Planning, and Dental Care. The program emphasizes minimizing health risks for pregnant women and ensuring the birth of healthy newborns.
Dra. Mendoza highlighted the importance of informing pregnant women about the free services available at health centers, dispelling the notion that pregnancy is inherently dangerous. "We want to shift the narrative around pregnancy from one of fear to one of empowerment. Pregnancy is a natural and beautiful process, and with the right care and support, it can be a safe and joyful experience," she stated.
She also encouraged couples to plan their pregnancies with the guidance of healthcare professionals. This proactive approach can help identify and address any potential risks early on, leading to better outcomes for both mother and baby.
"For all pregnant women in General Nakar, we offer free health center services. We provide free pre-natal care, laboratory tests, vitamin supplementation, and counseling about diet and activities," Dra. Mendoza reassured. "We believe that every mother and child deserves the best possible start in life, and we are committed to providing the necessary resources and support to make that happen."
Executive Assistant I Glen Jared Ruzol, representing the Mayor, expressed the Local Government's support for such programs. He emphasized the 'Buntis Congress' as one of the initiatives led by Mayor Esee Ruzol to ensure the well-being of pregnant women and prevent maternal deaths.
"Its purpose is to keep women fit and healthy, and guide them in proper self-care during pregnancy, as well as to prevent the case of maternal death. It is important to expand women's knowledge and awareness about pregnancy and childbirth, to help them perform well as mothers and lights of the home." he said.
"Importance of the health of every citizen will continue to be promoted in the General Nakar and surrounding areas, with a focus on providing accessible and quality healthcare services to all residents." he added.
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