Ensuring the health and well-being of new mothers and their infants is a cornerstone of a thriving society. I urge you to consider adopting the best global practices in postnatal care, including comprehensive maternity leave policies, to support American families and secure a brighter future for all.
Countries worldwide offer exemplary models that demonstrate the impact of prioritizing postnatal care and maternity leave:
South Korea
• Postpartum Care Centers: Mothers recover in specialized facilities offering tailored medical care, physical therapy, lactation support, and mental health counseling.
• Nutrition and Wellness: Customized meal plans ensure recovery and breastfeeding support.
Sweden
• Generous Parental Leave: Parents can share 480 days of paid leave, with 90 days reserved for each parent to promote shared caregiving responsibilities.
• Family Health Nurses: Regular home visits support maternal health, newborn care, and mental well-being.
The Netherlands
• Kraamzorg Services: Professional maternity nurses visit homes to assist with newborn care, maternal recovery, and household tasks during the first week postpartum.
• Emphasis on Bonding: Families are encouraged to focus on rest and bonding while receiving practical, hands-on help.
Finland
• Maternity Packages: Expectant mothers receive baby boxes filled with essential items, promoting preparedness and equality.
• Paid Parental Leave: A combined 14 months of parental leave supports maternal recovery and family bonding.
Japan
• Postpartum Home Help: Subsidized assistance is available for cleaning, meal preparation, and newborn care, reducing stress for new mothers.
• Focus on Rest: Cultural norms encourage extended rest periods for recovery and adjustment to motherhood.
Why This Matters for America
Adopting global best practices would:
• Significantly lower maternal and infant mortality rates.
• Reduce postpartum depression through enhanced mental health resources.
• Foster greater work-life balance through robust maternity leave policies.
• Strengthen families by emphasizing shared caregiving and recovery time.
Currently, the United States lags behind in providing comprehensive paid parental leave, one of only a few countries without federal guarantees. Instituting policies similar to Sweden or Finland, where paid leave is not only generous but equitable, would align us with global leaders and signal our commitment to families.
It’s time to invest in the health of mothers, infants, and families by adopting these proven practices. By doing so, we can build a nation where every family feels supported and every child is given the best possible start in life.
Thank you for considering this critical step toward a healthier, more equitable future.