Message from Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

March 25, 2009
For Immediate Release

Release of Canadian Maternity Experiences Survey reports

As a recent mother, I know first-hand that pregnancy and early motherhood is an exciting, but sometimes intimidating time in a woman’s life. Making wise lifestyle choices before, during and after pregnancy can help support a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

This is why I am pleased to introduce Mothers’ Voices – what women say about pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood. In 2006 and 2007, over 6,000 women from across the country took part in the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Maternity Experiences Survey. Thanks to their contribution, for the first time in Canada, we now have national information about maternity experiences, as reported by women themselves.

We now know that most women have high levels of satisfaction with the maternity care they receive and rate their overall maternity experience as positive. In general, Canadian women practise healthy behaviours for themselves and their babies, including avoiding smoking or drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

Nonetheless, there are some areas of concern that we all need to address. Many women continue to experience practices that are not recommended by medical professionals. Also, many women are not breastfeeding for the full first six months after the birth of their child.

A healthy pregnancy depends on many factors – some of which women can control, either on their own, or with the help of their health care professionals. By knowing more about what women experience, and by understanding the latest research, Canadians are better prepared to plan their approach to pregnancy, labour, birth and some postpartum practices.

I encourage all women to read this report.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also offers women tips on how to have a healthy pregnancy. For advice on healthy eating during pregnancy, information on folic acid, and guidance on overall health issues, visit www.healthycanadians.ca/pregnancy.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada

For more information, visit www.publichealth.gc.ca