#USA #Cambridge #March of Dimes #Postpartum Support #Philips Avent

Bridging the Support Gap for New Parents

A recent study has unveiled a substantial gap in the community support new parents receive, indicating that while a majority of people express a willingness to assist, many mothers, particularly Hispanic moms, find it challenging to articulate their needs. Conducted by Philips Avent and March of Dimes, this research prompts a call to action for communities to cultivate a supportive environment for new parents.

The Findings

According to the study, although 90% of survey participants indicated they would be willing to offer help to new parents if asked, a stark 62% of mothers, and an overwhelming 76% of Hispanic moms, reported difficulties in articulating what support they need, especially when it comes to emotional and mental assistance. This disconnect highlights a pressing issue: the transition into motherhood can be overwhelming and often leaves mothers feeling isolated in their struggles.

Kelly Ernst, Chief Impact Officer at March of Dimes, emphasized the critical nature of this support, stating, "The transition to parenthood is one of the most important and most challenging times in a person's life, yet many new moms face it without the support they need." This statement underscores the need for communities to convert their willingness to help into tangible actions, fostering an environment where support is not only offered but also welcomed and understood.

The Underlying Challenges

The data compiled in the study points to some alarming realities:

• - A significant number of parents (2 out of 3) reported that the initial three months postpartum are when they need the most help.
• - Among moms with a child under 3 years, 17% stated they received no support from anyone aside from their spouse, and 42% of those who did receive support felt it was insufficient.
• - Mental health and self-care emerged as primary needs, with many new mothers seeking assistance for issues such as postpartum depression, feelings of isolation, and general self-care practices. In fact, 93% of mothers indicated that self-care is essential, yet 80% report getting less than an hour of personal time each day.

Awareness is Key

One of the significant barriers identified in the study is the lack of awareness surrounding postpartum health issues. Only 31% of the public feels well-informed about these issues, yet those who are knowledgeable are 2.5 times more likely to offer assistance to new parents. This highlights the need for increased education and awareness initiatives within communities, enabling friends and family to understand and respond to the needs of new parents effectively.

The Role of Fathers and Extended Family

Interestingly, the study found that fathers of children under 18 are just as likely to provide support to new parents as mothers—72% versus 75%. Financial support was noted to be more often led by fathers, with 42% contributing compared to 26% of mothers. Furthermore, community support often leans toward immediate family members, with 63% offering help to relatives compared to 49% offering it to close friends. Nonetheless, the message remains clear: everyone has a role to play in supporting new parents, irrespective of their relationship.

Normalizing Help-Seeking Behavior

Dr. Ali Rodriguez, an obstetrician and new mother, advocated for a culture that normalizes seeking help. "We need to create a proactive culture of support, where both moms and their communities feel confident to ask for help," she stated. This perspective is crucial, as seeking support should not be viewed as a weakness but rather as a necessary aspect of parenting.

Sharing Care: Campaign Overview

The 'Share the Care' campaign launched by Philips Avent and March of Dimes encourages communities to engage in small, meaningful acts of support, ranging from simply checking in with a new mother to lending a hand with meals or offering a listening ear. The campaign aims to provide educational resources that empower communities to understand what new parents truly require and how they can effectively offer support.

As communities rally together to support new parents, it becomes increasingly vital for everyone to understand that while each mother's needs may vary, the overarching desire for support is universal. It is time for the village to step in and 'Share the Care' in practical and meaningful ways. In doing so, we can help mothers prioritize their well-being, ultimately benefiting both them and their children.

About Philips Avent and March of Dimes

Philips Avent, a global leader in health technology, is committed to improving people’s health and well-being through innovation and community engagement. March of Dimes has been at the forefront of advocating for mothers and babies since 1938, providing research, education, and programs to ensure every family receives the best possible start.

This research can serve as a wake-up call for communities everywhere. It’s time for us to listen more closely, act more decisively, and support new parents not just in word, but in action.