Health Needs of Childbearing Families

Addressing the health needs of childbearing families is vital to the future of our communities. There is increasing evidence that the early environment of children, including the intrauterine environment, has profound impact on their lifelong health.

Further, the health of reproductive aged women is significantly affected by childbearing, not only during pregnancy but also during the infancy and childhood of their offspring. Finally, the health of all members of families with children is influenced by childbearing and the health of the children produced. This entry provides an overview of current literature and discusses family health outcomes and interventions for addressing the health needs of childbearing families.