The journey of motherhood is beautiful, challenging, and complex. While much attention is given to pregnancy and childbirth, the postpartum period - especially beyond the first few weeks - often doesn't receive the focus it deserves.

This gap in care has led to what's known as the "postpartum cliff," a term that highlights the sudden drop in medical support many new mothers experience. At Materna Health, we're committed to addressing this critical issue.

Understanding the Postpartum Cliff

The postpartum cliff typically occurs around 6-8 weeks after childbirth. This is when most women have their final postpartum check-up, after which they're often left to navigate the ongoing challenges of new motherhood with little professional support. However, research shows that postpartum care needs extend far beyond this period.

The Alarming Statistics

Recent studies highlight the urgent need for extended postpartum care:

• According to the CDC, about 31% of pregnancy-related deaths occur during pregnancy, 36% happen during delivery or in the week after, and a striking 33% take place 1 week to 1 year postpartum.

• The leading causes of death vary by timing. While hemorrhage and amniotic fluid embolism are major causes on the day of delivery, cardiomyopathy becomes the leading cause of death in the late postpartum period (43-365 days postpartum).

• A report from the Health Care Transformation Task Force found that approximately 60% of pregnancy-related deaths were determined to be preventable.

These statistics underscore the importance of continuous care throughout the entire postpartum period, not just the first few weeks.

The Consequences of Inadequate Postpartum Care

The postpartum cliff can have serious consequences:

1. Undiagnosed postpartum depression or anxiety

2. Difficulties with breastfeeding

3. Challenges in physical recovery

4. Unaddressed chronic health conditions

5. Increased risk of pregnancy-related death, especially from cardiovascular conditions

Bridging the Gap: Materna Health's Approach

At Materna Health, we're addressing the postpartum cliff with our Virtual Intensive Postpartum Care (IPC) program. Here's how we're making a difference:

For New Mothers:

• Extended Care: Our program lasts 12 weeks, providing support well beyond the typical 6-8 week period.

• Comprehensive Approach: We address physical recovery, mental health, breastfeeding, nutrition, and more.

• Convenience: Virtual care means you can access support from the comfort of your home.

• Personalized Plans: Your care is tailored to your unique needs and adjusted as you progress.

For Healthcare Providers:

• Enhanced Patient Care: Complement your in-office care with our virtual support.

• Specialized Expertise: Access to a team of postpartum specialists.

• Seamless Coordination: We keep you informed about your patients' progress.

For Health Plans:

• Improved Outcomes: Our proactive approach can help reduce complications and readmissions.

• Member Satisfaction: Offer a valuable benefit that supports new mothers through a challenging time.

• Cost-Effective: Prevent costly complications through early intervention and ongoing support.

The Importance of Comprehensive Care

Research suggests that a comprehensive approach to postpartum care can significantly improve outcomes. The Health Care Transformation Task Force report highlighted several key elements of high-value maternity care:

• Expanded care teams including midwives, doulas, and lactation consultants

• Integration of mental health screening and support

• Continuous care extending beyond the immediate postpartum period

• Addressing social determinants of health

Our IPC program incorporates these elements, providing a holistic approach to postpartum care that aligns with the latest research and recommendations.

Taking Action

Whether you're a new mother, a healthcare provider, or a health plan administrator, there are steps you can take to address the postpartum cliff:

1. New Mothers: Ask your provider about extended postpartum care options like Materna Health's IPC program. Learn more

2. Healthcare Providers: Consider partnering with Materna Health to offer comprehensive postpartum support to your patients. Learn more

3. Health Plans: Explore integrating programs like Materna Health's IPC into your maternity care benefits. Learn more

By working together, we can ensure that no mother falls off the postpartum cliff. Let's create a future where every new mother receives the comprehensive, long-term support she needs and deserves.

Remember, postpartum care isn't just about the first few weeks - it's about supporting mothers throughout their transition to parenthood and beyond. With the right support, we can improve outcomes, save lives, and help every mother thrive in her new role.