World Health Day is celebrated annually on April 7 to highlight pressing health challenges and inspire global action. This year, the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” chosen by the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasizes maternal and new-born health as the cornerstone of thriving families and communities. As an IVF clinic dedicated to helping families achieve their dreams of parenthood, this theme resonates deeply with our mission.
Maternal and new-born health is critical to building healthier societies. According to WHO, nearly 300,000 women die each year due to pregnancy-related complications, while over 4 million babies are lost to preventable causes such as stillbirth or neonatal death. These statistics underscore the urgent need for improved healthcare systems that prioritize safe pregnancies, skilled childbirth care and essential postnatal support.
For families undergoing fertility treatments, maternal and new-born health takes on an even greater significance. IVF clinics play a pivotal role in ensuring that hopeful parents not only conceive but also experience healthy pregnancies and successful births. By aligning our practices with the goals of World Health Day 2025, we aim to contribute to a future where every child has a chance at life and every parent can enjoy the journey of parenthood.
As a fertility clinic, we are uniquely positioned to support the theme "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures" in several ways:
Comprehensive Fertility Care: Our clinic provides advanced fertility treatments designed to optimize maternal health before conception. This includes pre-treatment screenings for conditions like diabetes or hypertension that could affect pregnancy outcomes.
Emphasis on Emotional Wellbeing: Infertility can be emotionally taxing. We prioritize mental health by offering psychological counselling services to ensure that patients feel supported throughout their journey.
Safe Pregnancy Monitoring: Our Genetic Counselling helps to ensure safe pregnancy. Once conception is achieved, we collaborate with obstetricians to monitor pregnancies closely. Early interventions can prevent complications such as preterm labour or gestational diabetes.
Education for Parents: We empower families with knowledge about prenatal care, nutrition and stress management—key factors for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
World Health Day is not just about raising awareness; it’s about inspiring action. Governments, healthcare providers and communities must work together to eliminate preventable maternal and new-born deaths. Advocacy for policies such as paid maternity leave, universal access to reproductive healthcare and equitable distribution of medical resources is vital.
In line with this year’s theme, here are five tips for aspiring parents:
1. Prioritize Preconception Health: Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients like folic acid and iron. Regular exercise helps prepare your body for pregnancy.
2. Seek Early Medical Advice: Consult fertility specialists early if you face challenges conceiving. Early interventions often lead to better outcomes.
3. Focus on Mental Health: Stress can impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Engage in mindfulness practices or seek professional counselling.
4. Stay Informed: Learn about prenatal care essentials such as vaccinations, ultrasounds and genetic screenings.
5. Build Support Networks: Surround yourself with loved ones who can provide emotional support during your journey.
On World Health Day 2025, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating healthier beginnings for mothers and babies worldwide. At our IVF clinic, every step we take—from preconception care to postnatal support at our group hospital — is guided by the belief that hopeful futures start with healthy beginnings. Together with global efforts inspired by this year’s theme, we can ensure that every family has the opportunity to thrive.