Maternal Health Literacy (MHL) for Improved Maternal and Child Outcomes: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Measuring a country's health requires considering maternal and child health indices. Despite international efforts, the Sustainable Development Goals for maternal mortality and child health are still difficult to achieve. The current study aims to understand the maternal and children's outcomes of maternal health literacy (MHL). A scoping review was conducted on maternal health literacy outcomes. We searched for English language publications on MHL and its effects on mother and child health that were published between 2005 and 2024 in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. PRISMA chart is used for the study selection process and the data findings were compiled and summarized narratively. A total of 13 articles were included in this scoping review. MHL gives women the ability to get, comprehend, assess, and use health information, which has an impact on pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum care. Higher MHL may result in better mother and newborn health outcomes since studies link it to increased use of prenatal care, skilled delivery attendance, and postnatal care services. MHL may also have an impact on things like breastfeeding habits, vitamin supplementation, and warning sign knowledge. MHL investments are essential for enhancing the health of mothers and children. By providing women with the knowledge, they need to make educated decisions, MHL may encourage healthier habits and improve the health of both mothers and their offspring.