When it comes to pregnancy, health means far more than the absence of disease. Pregnancy must be approached from a holistic perspective, taking into account the health of both the future mother and the foetus.
Well before conception, the body must be prepared for the physical demands of pregnancy. The future mother's health and lifestyle are key, as they will influence the child's growth and development.
Throughout pregnancy, the child is cared for by caring for the mother. Both her physical and psychological well-being must be addressed. A number of obstetric examinations therefore take place throughout the pregnancy to ensure it is progressing well.
During birth, the child's care is still closely linked to that of the mother. Standards of hygiene and the ways in which any complications are treated are likely to impact on both parties. It is therefore impossible to separate the care given to the child from that given to the mother.