Celebrating National Safe Motherhood Day on 11th April 2025: Importance, Theme, and Tips For Good Maternal Health

Here’s a hard truth: Every day, around 800 women across the globe lose their lives due to complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. Many of these deaths are preventable. Sounds very sad and shocking, doesn’t it? That this is 2025, and in many parts of the world, we still have women suffering in silence, denied access to basic maternal care. Women still face such profound risks while bringing new life.

Why? Well, that answer, I’ll leave to you, dear readers.

But today, in this space, I want to talk about something truly precious. Something close to the heart. Something that needs your attention—not tomorrow, not next week—now.

This is about National Safe Motherhood Day on 11th April 2025, and the profound reasons why do we celebrate National Safe Motherhood Day? It’s about acknowledging what is the importance of safe motherhood? Join me as we delve into this crucial day and the essential steps towards ensuring the well-being of every mother.

Table Of Contents 

1. Why Do We Celebrate National Safe Motherhood Day?
2. What Is the Theme of National Safe Motherhood Day 2025?
3. What Is the Importance of the Maternal Health of A Woman?
4. Healthiest Foods To Eat During Pregnancy
5. What Is The Best Fitness During Pregnancy? 
6. Dietitian’s Recommendation 
7. The Final Say 
8. FAQs
9. References 
    

Why Do We Celebrate National Safe Motherhood Day?

The initiative for National Safe Motherhood Day was pioneered by the White Ribbon Alliance India, an organisation dedicated to advocating for maternal and newborn health. India was the first country to officially declare a national observance for safe motherhood. The date, April 11, was chosen in honour of the birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, the wife of Mahatma Gandhi, who was a strong advocate for women’s rights and well-being.

The significance of this day lies in its ability to draw attention to the issues that pregnant women face, particularly in developing countries where maternal healthcare facilities are inadequate or inaccessible. Healthcare professionals, legislators, non-governmental organisations, and members of civil society can gather on this day to discuss ways to enhance maternal and reproductive health services. The day also highlights the importance of prenatal and postnatal care, institutional deliveries, and skilled birth attendance to prevent complications and fatalities related to pregnancy and childbirth.

What Is the Theme of National Safe Motherhood Day 2025?

Every year, the White Ribbon Alliance (WRAI) chooses a theme to spread knowledge about maternity facilities and appropriate care for expectant and nursing mothers through a variety of activities. Raising awareness that every woman has the right to live and survive pregnancy and childbirth is the straightforward aim of these activities. "Equity in Maternal Healthcare: Leaving No Mother Behind" is the theme for 2025.

What Is the Importance of the Maternal Health of A Woman?

Maternal health refers to a woman's overall health during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. It includes physical, mental, and emotional well-being, ensuring both the mother and baby remain healthy. Good maternal health requires proper nutrition, medical care, and emotional support.

Scientifically, maternal health depends on balanced hormone levels, a strong immune system, and sufficient nutrients like iron, calcium, and folic acid. Regular prenatal checkups help monitor the baby’s growth, detect complications early, and manage conditions like high blood pressure or anaemia. Vaccinations, such as those for tetanus and influenza, protect both mother and baby from infections.

Also Read: Dark Chocolate To Lentils: Explore The 10 Foods Rich In Iron For Pregnant Women To Avoid Anaemia

Mental health is equally important as hormonal changes can cause mood swings, anxiety, or depression. Emotional support from family and friends helps reduce stress, which can otherwise negatively affect the baby’s development. 

Healthiest Foods To Eat During Pregnancy

Here are the healthiest foods to eat during pregnancy: 

1. Leafy Green Vegetables

Spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in folic acid, iron, fibre, and antioxidants, essential for preventing birth defects and anaemia. They aid digestion, enhance immunity, and encourage healthy fetal development.

2. Dairy Products

Milk, yogurt, and cheese provide calcium, protein, and probiotics, strengthening bones and aiding digestion. Probiotics improve gut health, reducing pregnancy-related bloating and constipation.

3. Eggs

Eggs promote brain development and lessen neural tube defects because they are a great source of protein, choline, and important vitamins. They sustain healthy weight gain and give you sustained energy.

4. Legumes (Lentils, Beans, Chickpeas)

Rich in protein, fibre, iron, and folate, legumes prevent anemia, aid digestion, and promote fetal brain development. They help maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.

5. Nuts And Seeds

Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds provide omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and magnesium, which are crucial for fetal brain and eye development. They also support maternal heart health and help in reducing inflammation in the body.

6. Fatty Fish (Salmon, Sardines, Mackerel)

High in omega-3 fatty acids (DHA), vitamin D, and protein, fatty fish support brain and eye development in babies. Consuming mercury-safe fish twice a week is beneficial for maternal and fetal health.

Also Read: 4 Surprising Benefits Of Fish Oil During Pregnancy Every Mom Should Know!

7. Whole Grains (Oats, Quinoa, Brown Rice)

Whole grains provide fibre, B vitamins, and complex carbohydrates, ensuring steady energy levels and supporting fetal growth. They help prevent constipation and promote digestive health.

8. Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries)

Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fibre, berries boost immunity, improve skin health, and regulate blood sugar levels. They also support collagen formation for fetal tissue development.

9. Avocados

Rich in healthy fats, folate, potassium, and vitamin E, avocados support fetal brain growth, reduce leg cramps, and help maintain maternal heart health. They also aid in reducing morning sickness.

10. Lean Meats (Chicken, Turkey)

Excellent sources of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, lean meats help prevent anemia, support muscle growth, and boost energy levels. Properly cooked meat ensures safe consumption, reducing infection risks.

Also Read: What Are Prenatal Vitamins? 7 Benefits For Pregnant Women & Nutrients To Avoid!

What Is The Best Fitness During Pregnancy? 

The best fitness routine during pregnancy includes safe, moderate exercises that help maintain health without putting excessive strain on the body. Walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and light strength training are excellent choices. Exercise improves blood circulation, reduces pregnancy discomfort, and helps control weight gain, which can prevent complications like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.

Scientifically, exercise releases endorphins, which boost mood and reduce stress. It also strengthens the heart, lungs, and muscles, preparing the body for labour. Stretching and breathing exercises, which are low-impact activities, enhance flexibility and minimise the risk of back pain. Strength training with light weights can prevent muscle loss and stabilise the spine as the belly expands.

However, high-impact exercises, heavy lifting, or activities that risk falling should be avoided. It is important to stay hydrated and listen to the body’s signals.

Dietitian’s Recommendation 

On National Safe Motherhood Day, prioritising a nutritious diet rich in protein, iron, folic acid, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids is highly recommended for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Incorporating leafy vegetables, dairy products, lean proteins, nuts, and whole grains ensures the intake of vital nutrients. 

Maintaining adequate hydration and consuming fibre-rich foods help prevent constipation. It's advisable to refrain from processed foods, excessive caffeine, and uncooked seafood. Frequent, small meals can aid in managing nausea. Supplementation under medical supervision can guarantee sufficient vitamin consumption. Ultimately, a well-nourished mothers contributes to a safer pregnancies, a smoother deliveries, and healthier infant.

Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say 

Safe motherhood is not just a responsibility—it’s a reflection of the kind of society we choose to be. As we mark National Safe Motherhood Day on 11th April 2025, let us not just remember but also act. Ask yourself again: What is the importance of safe motherhood? If we truly value life, the answer will never be too far.

FAQs

1. What is the National Safe Motherhood Program in India?

It’s a government initiative to reduce maternal and infant mortality by promoting institutional deliveries and antenatal care. Launched under the Reproductive and Child Health program. It ensures access to quality health services for pregnant women.

2. Whose birthday is celebrated as National Safe Motherhood Day in India?

April 11, the birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, is observed as National Safe Motherhood Day. It raises awareness about women's health and maternal care needs.
 

3. What are the main causes of maternal mortality?

The leading causes include severe bleeding, infections, high blood pressure (preeclampsia), unsafe abortions, and obstructed labour. Malnutrition, lack of prenatal care, and limited access to skilled birth attendants also contribute to maternal deaths, especially in developing regions with poor healthcare infrastructure.

4. What government schemes support safe motherhood in India?

Programs like Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), and Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) provide financial aid, free prenatal checkups, and nutrition support to pregnant women, ensuring safer pregnancies and deliveries, particularly for underprivileged mothers.

5. How does breastfeeding support maternal and newborn health?

Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients, boosts newborn immunity, and reduces the risk of infections. For mothers, it helps in postpartum recovery, weight loss, and lowering the risk of breast cancer. The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for six months for optimal health.

6. In which year was the Child Survival and Safe Motherhood Programme launched?

It was launched in 1992. The program aimed to improve maternal and child health services across India through immunisation, safe deliveries, and nutrition.

7. What is the Safe Motherhood Initiative 1987?

Started by WHO and partners in 1987, this global initiative aimed to reduce maternal deaths worldwide. It emphasised skilled birth attendance, emergency obstetric care, and access to health services.

8. What are the 7 pillars of safe motherhood?

They include family planning, antenatal care, clean/safe delivery, essential obstetric care, postnatal care, education, and emergency referral systems. Together, they ensure comprehensive maternal health.

9. What are the 10 components of safe motherhood?

These typically include antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, postnatal care, family planning, STI/HIV prevention, education, referral services, nutritional support, emergency care, and community engagement. The exact components may vary slightly across frameworks.

10. What are the 4 pillars of parenting?

The four core pillars often include love, discipline, consistency, and communication. These help raise emotionally healthy and responsible children.

11. What is the role of family planning in safe motherhood?

Family planning helps space births, reduces high-risk pregnancies, and empowers women to make informed reproductive choices. It’s key to improving maternal and child health outcomes.

References 

• https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/event-detail.htm?221631#:~:text=April%2011%2C%202023&text=In%20the%20year%20of%202003,Safe%20Motherhood%20Day%20is%20commemorated.
• https://www.ketto.org/blog/national-safe-motherhood-day
• https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/magazine-national-safe-motherhood-day-history-significance-facts-quotes/#:~:text=National%20Safe%20Motherhood%20Day%20is%20commemorated%20on%20April%2011th%20every,Mohan%20Das%20Karam%20Chand%20Gandhi.
• https://www.bankersadda.com/national-safe-motherhood-day-2024/

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