Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur- Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO) Laniebelle Angchangco, Provincial Health Office (PHO) Maternal Health Coordinator, Annabelle Dela Cruz and Provincial Nutrition Focal Point (PNFP) Mariella Rayco of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) facilitated an open discussion with the pregnant and lactating mothers in selected barangays of Agusan del Sur from February 2-10, 2022.

The group started by introducing themselves and invited the participants to share their experiences, knowledge, issues and insights with regards to assessment, measurement of weight, height for body mass index (BMI) calculation and measurement of mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and other concerns during pregnancy.

The calculation of the BMI and the measurement of MUAC of the participants are necessary to identify the presence of malnourishment among pregnant women.

PNAO Angchangco shared the importance of water, birth spacing, exclusive breastfeeding, and consequences of malnourishment to pregnant women.

On the other hand, PHO Maternal Health Coordinator Dela Cruz shared the importance of maternal health care, prenatal visits, and taking vitamins all throughout the pregnancy.

Meanwhile, PNFP Rayco shared the importance of the first 1000 days as the golden window of opportunity for the children and the mother. Likewise, orientation to pinggay pinoy plate for pregnant and lactating women was included.

Participants who were first time pregnant mothers, shared their experiences during their first trimester, including the importance of taking multivitamins, iron with folate and other maintenance medicines for pregnancy. Moreover, they shared their change in attitude towards food. They opt to eat healthier foods as long as they have enough resources.

Likewise, participants who delivered more than once also shared their experiences of raising their child in the first two years. Challenges to exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding are some of the concerns raised.

Finally, pregnant mothers are instructed to have regular prenatal and advised to give birth in the nearest facility. #MPRayco