BY DOROTHY DILLON
Every baby deserves a healthy beginning. During Infant Mortality Awareness Month, the Martin County Health Department encourages families to learn simple but important steps that support healthy pregnancies, safe sleep, and strong families.
Before baby arrives
Begin prenatal care early and keep regular appointments.
Avoid smoking, vaping, alcohol, and drugs.
Eat a healthy diet, stay active, and take prenatal vitamins.
Take care of your mental health and ask for help when needed.
Talk with your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns.
After baby arrives
Always put your baby to sleep on their back.
Use a firm, flat sleep surface without pillows, blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals.
Keep your home and vehicle smoke-free.
Keep your baby’s medical checkups and vaccinations up to date.
Ask for help when you need it—you are not alone.
Local support
Small steps can make a big difference in giving babies the best possible start in life. Local programs provide education, resources and support to pregnant women and families throughout Martin County.
The Martin County Health Department’s HANDS home-visiting program offers support, education and resources for pregnant women and families. The department’s WIC program provides nutrition education, healthy foods and breastfeeding support for mothers and babies. You can reach both programs at 606-298-7752.
Three Rivers Medical Clinic Immediate Care in Inez provides medical care for families and can be reached at 606-298-5566.
Mountain Comprehensive Care Center’s Inez Outpatient Clinic provides behavioral health and substance-use support for individuals and families. You can reach the clinic at 606-298-4651.
Parents and family members who want to stop smoking can receive free help through Kentucky Quit Now at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
THRIVE Community Coalition, located at 2570 Rockcastle Road in Inez, offers wellness coaching, skills development and recovery support for individuals and families. THRIVE can be reached at 606-534-6441 or [email protected].
Every baby deserves a healthy beginning, and families do not have to navigate pregnancy and early parenthood alone. For information about Infant Mortality Awareness Month, HANDS, WIC or other available services, contact the Martin County Health Department at 606-298-7752.
Dorothy Dillon is the Health Program Development and Outreach Manager at the Martin County Health Department, 136 Rockcastle Road, Inez.