How Technology Is Influencing Pregnancy and Childbirth

Technology has undeniably disrupted every industry, particularly the healthcare sector. Over the years, technological advancements have transformed the industry into what it is today. These innovations have provided expectant mothers with access to tailored and high-quality services. In this article, we’ll explore the challenges and risks pregnant women face and how technology can help make their motherhood journey more manageable and meaningful.

Pregnancy and Childbirth Risks

Even in today’s highly digital world, where there are vast sources of information, expectant mothers often find themselves at a loss for what to do to ensure they have a safe and complication-free childbirth. This is especially true for women in remote areas or those without proper support and guidance. Many pregnant women tend to believe the content found on social media and other digital platforms, struggling to differentiate between misinformation and factual information.

Medical malpractice is another risk for pregnant women. Even the most prepared mothers are at risk of experiencing childbirth complications such as forceps injuries, fetal distress, Erb’s Palsy, brain damage, and Cerebral Palsy. Mothers and their babies who encounter medical malpractice have to endure life-altering consequences, including fighting for their legal rights through lawsuits such as cerebral palsy lawsuit settlements​. 

Technological Advancements in Prenatal Care and Childbirth

In the early centuries, being pregnant and giving birth were associated with life-threatening risks. Thanks to the advent of technology, these risks are now comparatively less, reducing the chances of death during pregnancy and childbirth. Here are some notable innovations in childbirth and prenatal care:

  • Electronic fetal monitoring
  • Cell-free DNA screening
  • 3D and 4D ultrasound technology
  • AI-powered apps
  • Fetal cardiac MRI
  • Cellular-enabled blood glucose monitors
  • Flexible monitoring devices

Technology has also made it more convenient and manageable for pregnant women to keep up with their prenatal doctor appointments. Telehealth allowed them to consult with their healthcare team, reducing their need to travel long distances or the risks of contracting diseases from in-person hospital visits.

In addition, unlike previous decades when giving birth was extremely painful, mothers-to-be have the option of receiving pain relief during labour and delivery, making the experience of giving birth less stressful, more comfortable, and manageable.

Postnatal Care Innovations

In addition to prenatal and childbirth care, various technological developments support new mothers and newborns. Before giving birth, new mothers can take advantage of virtual clinics to speak with their doctors, especially regarding their postpartum care and recovery.

Patient portals and other communication apps enable mothers to connect efficiently with their healthcare providers. In addition to the guidance provided by their doctors or midwives, there are also apps available that mothers can use to learn more about postpartum care.

Many of these mobile or wearable technologies offer real-time assistance and monitoring. These tools provide valuable data that can help your doctor or healthcare team develop a more efficient and personalized maternity care plan.

Endnote

While pregnancy and childbirth are unique and incredibly rewarding experiences, they can be challenging in all aspects. With the aid of technology and its promising future, expectant mothers can embrace their motherhood journeys with positivity and hope.

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