An expectant woman’s dietary condition is of utmost importance for the well-being of both the mother and the unborn baby. But why is maintaining a nutritional status so significant for a pregnant lady? What is the relevance of upholding a proper diet during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes numerous changes to support the growth and development of the baby. It is an extraordinary period that requires a careful balance of nutrients to meet the increased demands of the mother’s body as well as the developing fetus. Sustaining a healthy nutritional status ensures that the mother remains healthy and strong throughout the pregnancy, and it also provides the necessary nutrients for the baby’s proper growth and development.
Proper nutrition during pregnancy can have long-term effects on the health of both the mother and the child. The nutritional status of a pregnant woman can influence the risk of developing certain conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. Additionally, an inadequate diet during pregnancy can result in nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to complications such as low birth weight or birth defects.
Preserving a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for an expectant woman. It ensures that she receives adequate amounts of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients that are crucial for the healthy growth and development of the baby. The nutritional status of a pregnant woman also plays a role in supporting her immune system, reducing the risk of infections, and maintaining her overall well-being during this critical period.
Ensuring Optimal Health for Both Mother and Baby
When it comes to the well-being of a pregnant woman, maintaining her nutritional status is of utmost importance. Upholding the right dietary choices is not just about ensuring the mother’s health, but it also has a significant impact on the development and overall health of the baby. So, why is it so crucial to sustain the nutritional condition of an expectant woman?
The relevance of a nutritious diet goes beyond simply providing adequate nourishment for the mother’s body. It plays a vital role in preserving her health and well-being throughout the pregnancy. A balanced and appropriate diet during pregnancy can help manage weight gain, prevent gestational disorders, and reduce the risk of complications during childbirth.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy nutritional status also contributes to the proper development of the fetus. Adequate intake of essential nutrients such as folic acid, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids supports the growth of the baby’s organs, bones, and nervous system. It can also help prevent birth defects and ensure healthy birth outcomes.
What a pregnant woman eats directly impacts the nutritional support she provides to her growing baby. A well-nourished mother can transfer essential nutrients to her fetus through the placenta, ensuring optimal development and growth. On the other hand, a lack of proper nutrition can lead to complications, such as low birth weight, preterm birth, or developmental delays.
Furthermore, maintaining a healthy nutritional status during pregnancy can have long-term benefits for both the mother and the baby. Proper nutrition supports the mother’s postpartum recovery and helps prevent chronic diseases later in life. For the baby, it sets the foundation for a healthy growth trajectory and reduces the risk of childhood obesity and other health issues.
In conclusion, maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and baby. It is a sign of upholding the significance of their health and ensuring optimal development and growth. By prioritizing a nutritious diet and seeking appropriate guidance, expectant mothers can provide the best conditions for a healthy and thriving pregnancy.
Supporting Proper Growth and Development
One of the utmost importance and relevance in upholding the nutritional status of an expectant woman is the significance it has on the proper growth and development of the baby. The condition and well-being of the mother’s nutritional status play a crucial role in ensuring the optimal development of the fetus.
Why is maintaining a proper nutritional status important for a pregnant woman? The dietary needs of a pregnant woman differ from those of a non-pregnant woman. During pregnancy, the mother’s body requires additional nutrients to sustain the growth and development of the baby. These nutrients are vital for the formation of the baby’s organs, tissues, and overall health.
A well-balanced and nutritious diet provides the necessary vitamins, minerals, proteins, and carbohydrates to support the growth of the baby. It helps in preventing deficiencies that can lead to birth defects, low birth weight, or other complications during pregnancy.
| Importance | Relevance | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Ensures optimal development of the baby | Supports the growth and formation of organs | Prevents birth defects and complications during pregnancy |
| Promotes healthy weight gain for the mother | Provides energy for both mother and baby | Reduces the risk of gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders |
| Enhances the immune system of the mother and baby | Aids in the production of breast milk | Supports postpartum recovery for the mother |
Therefore, it is essential for a pregnant woman to maintain a nutritious diet to ensure the well-being and proper development of both herself and her baby. By preserving her nutritional status, she can greatly contribute to the overall health and future of her child.
Promoting a Strong Immune System
In the context of maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman, upholding a strong immune system is of utmost importance. The well-being of the mother and her ability to sustain a healthy pregnancy are directly connected to her immune function.
But why is it so important for an expectant mother to have a strong immune system? The answer lies in the relevance of maintaining the overall health and condition of the woman during pregnancy. A strong immune system helps the pregnant woman to fight off infections and diseases that can negatively impact both her and her developing baby.
One way to promote a strong immune system in a pregnant woman is through a well-balanced and nutritious diet. The dietary choices of the expectant mother play a crucial role in enhancing her immune function. Consuming foods rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals can bolster the immune system and provide the necessary support for a healthy pregnancy.
By maintaining a nutritious diet, the pregnant woman can ensure that her body receives the vital nutrients it needs to support immune function. This not only helps to defend against harmful pathogens but also aids in the development of the baby’s immune system.
| Benefits of a Strong Immune System in a Pregnant Woman |
|---|
| 1. Reduced risk of infections |
| 2. Improved overall health and well-being |
| 3. Enhanced ability to combat illnesses |
| 4. Better chances of a successful pregnancy |
It is evident that maintaining a strong immune system during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. By preserving the nutritional status of the pregnant woman and promoting a healthy diet, the chances of a successful pregnancy are significantly increased.
Preventing Nutritional Deficiencies
A pregnant woman’s nutritional status is of utmost importance for the well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. Upholding the significance of maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is crucial to ensure the proper development and growth of the baby. But what is the relevance of preserving the nutritional condition of an expectant mother?
The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Diet
It is important for a pregnant woman to sustain a balanced and nutritious diet to provide her body with the essential nutrients it needs. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to various complications during pregnancy, such as low birth weight, preterm labor, neural tube defects, and impaired fetal growth.
Proper nutrition during pregnancy also plays a vital role in supporting the mother’s overall health. It helps boost the immune system, maintain energy levels, and prevent maternal complications such as anemia, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Preventing Nutritional Deficiencies
To prevent nutritional deficiencies, it is crucial for an expectant mother to consume a variety of nutrient-rich foods. This includes a balanced intake of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A well-rounded diet should include lean meats, poultry, fish, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and healthy fats.
In some cases, prenatal supplements may be recommended by healthcare professionals to ensure that the mother’s nutritional needs are met. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements to determine the appropriate dosage and suitability for the individual.
Regular monitoring of the mother’s nutritional status through prenatal check-ups and blood tests is also important. This allows healthcare professionals to identify any deficiencies and provide appropriate recommendations or interventions if necessary.
| Key Points: |
|---|
| – Maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. |
| – Nutritional deficiencies can lead to complications such as low birth weight, preterm labor, and impaired fetal growth. |
| – A balanced intake of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber is essential for preventing nutritional deficiencies. |
| – Prenatal supplements may be recommended in some cases, but consulting with a healthcare provider is important. |
| – Regular monitoring of the mother’s nutritional status through prenatal check-ups and blood tests is essential. |
Reducing the Risk of Complications
Maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman is of utmost importance in upholding her well-being and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. The condition of an expectant mother greatly influences the overall health and development of the baby. But what exactly is the relevance of a nutritious diet for a pregnant lady?
The importance of maintaining a proper nutritional status during pregnancy cannot be overstated. It is crucial for the mother’s health and the well-being of the developing baby. A nutritious diet helps the expectant mother sustain her energy levels, support the growth of the baby, and reduce the risk of complications.
Why is it important?
During pregnancy, the body goes through significant changes and requires additional nutrients to support the development of the baby. Adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals is necessary to prevent nutrient deficiencies and ensure proper fetal growth.
By maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, a pregnant woman can reduce the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and low birth weight. These complications can have long-lasting effects on both the mother and the baby’s health.
What can a pregnant woman do?
To reduce the risk of complications, it is important for a pregnant woman to prioritize her nutritional needs. This can be achieved by:
- Consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods
- Including foods rich in iron, calcium, folic acid, and other essential nutrients
- Avoiding excessive weight gain and practicing healthy weight management
- Fulfilling the increased energy requirements with nutritious snacks
- Staying hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water
Additionally, it is essential for pregnant women to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance on their dietary needs.
In conclusion, the significance of maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of complications and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the baby. By upholding a nutritious diet, expectant mothers can support the healthy development of their babies and promote a positive pregnancy experience.
Enhancing Maternal Well-being
What condition is a pregnant woman in? Is it important to sustain the well-being of an expectant mother? The answer to these questions lies in the significance of maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman.
The relevance of upholding a healthy diet and preserving the nutritional status of a mother during pregnancy cannot be overstated. The well-being of the mother plays a crucial role in the overall health of both the mother and the baby.
Importance of Maintaining Nutritional Status
Dietary intake and proper nutrition are essential for a pregnant woman to ensure her well-being. Adequate intake of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is necessary to support the growth and development of the fetus. It helps in preventing complications during pregnancy and promotes a healthy delivery.
Furthermore, maintaining a good nutritional status can help in preventing maternal anemia, gestational diabetes, and other pregnancy-related problems. It also contributes to the optimal functioning of the mother’s body and supports her immune system.
The Relevance to the Mother
Proper nutrition during pregnancy not only benefits the growing fetus but also enhances the overall well-being of the mother. A well-nourished mother is more likely to experience fewer pregnancy discomforts such as morning sickness, fatigue, and mood swings.
Moreover, a healthy diet and good nutritional status can help the mother maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy, reducing the risk of excessive weight gain and related complications. It also enhances the mother’s energy levels, allowing her to cope with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy.
In conclusion, enhancing the maternal well-being by maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman is of utmost importance. It not only benefits the mother but also ensures the healthy growth and development of the baby. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize and promote proper nutrition during pregnancy.
Boosting Energy Levels
Energy levels are of utmost importance for a pregnant woman. Maintaining a healthy energy level is essential to sustain the well-being and nutritional status of both the expectant mother and the growing fetus.
A pregnant woman undergoes numerous physical and hormonal changes that can lead to fatigue. With an increased demand for nutrients and the body working overtime to support the development of the baby, it is crucial for expectant mothers to prioritize their energy levels.
One way to boost energy levels is by upholding a well-balanced and nutritious diet. Consuming a variety of foods that provide essential nutrients such as iron, folate, protein, and complex carbohydrates is vital for maintaining energy levels.
Another important factor in boosting energy is staying hydrated. Drinking an adequate amount of water helps in maintaining bodily functions, preventing dehydration and fatigue.
Getting enough rest and sleep is also essential for a pregnant woman. Fatigue can be a sign of insufficient rest, so it is crucial for expectant mothers to prioritize sleep and allow their bodies to recharge.
Regular physical activity can also help boost energy levels during pregnancy. Engaging in appropriate exercises or activities recommended by a healthcare provider can improve circulation, reduce fatigue, and increase energy levels.
It is important for pregnant women to listen to their bodies and give themselves permission to rest when needed. Ignoring signs of fatigue and overexerting oneself can lead to negative consequences on both the mother and the baby.
In conclusion, maintaining high energy levels during pregnancy is of utmost significance in upholding the nutritional status and well-being of a pregnant woman. By preserving a balanced diet, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and engaging in appropriate physical activity, expectant mothers can boost their energy levels and promote a healthy pregnancy.
Improving Fetal Brain Development
The development of the fetal brain is a critical condition for the well-being and the future of a pregnant woman. Maintaining the nutritional status of an expectant mother is of utmost importance due to the relevance it has in sustaining a healthy brain development for the fetus.
During pregnancy, the mother’s dietary choices and habits significantly impact the growth and development of the baby. The brain is one of the most complex and vital organs, therefore, it requires adequate nutrition to develop properly.
What an expectant mother consumes directly affects the nutrition available for the baby’s brain development. Proper levels of essential nutrients, such as folic acid, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins, are essential for supporting the growth and connectivity of brain cells.
Preserving a balanced and nutritious diet is key to upholding the nutritional status of a pregnant woman. This means consuming a wide variety of foods that provide the necessary nutrients for the fetus’s brain development.
The importance of maintaining a healthy nutritional status during pregnancy cannot be overstated. It not only impacts the well-being of the mother but also has a direct significance on the long-term cognitive development and overall health of the child.
Ensuring that a pregnant woman receives adequate nutrition is crucial to promoting healthy brain development in the fetus. The brain develops rapidly during pregnancy, and an insufficient supply of nutrients can have long-lasting effects on the child’s cognitive abilities and potential.
So, why is it important to sustain an optimal nutritional status for a pregnant woman? The answer lies in the fact that the mother’s diet directly impacts the fetus’s brain development, which, in turn, affects the child’s future well-being and cognitive abilities.
In conclusion, it is of utmost importance to uphold the nutritional status of a pregnant woman to improve fetal brain development. By preserving a healthy and balanced diet, expectant mothers can provide the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and connectivity of the baby’s brain cells, ultimately contributing to the child’s overall well-being and lifelong potential.
Preventing Low Birth Weight
Why is it important for a pregnant woman to uphold her nutritional status? What is the relevance of maintaining a healthy nutritional condition for the well-being of a mother and her unborn child? These are some questions that highlight the significance of preserving the dietary needs of an expectant lady.
Enhancing the Baby’s Cognitive Abilities
The nutritional condition of an expectant mother plays an important role in the development of her unborn baby. The dietary status of a pregnant woman is a significant factor in determining the cognitive abilities and potential of her child. So, why is upholding a proper nutritional status crucial for an expectant lady? What is the relevance of maintaining a healthy diet for a pregnant woman?
It is well-known that a pregnant woman’s diet has a direct impact on the growth and development of her baby. Proper nutrition provides essential nutrients that are required for the optimal development of the baby’s brain and cognitive abilities. These nutrients include omega-3 fatty acids, iron, iodine, choline, and several vitamins and minerals.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, nuts, and seeds, are important for brain development and overall cognitive function. Iron is necessary for the transport of oxygen to the baby’s brain, ensuring its proper functioning. Iodine is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones, which play a key role in brain development. Choline is necessary for the formation of neural connections in the developing brain. Various vitamins and minerals, such as folate, vitamin D, and zinc, also contribute to the baby’s cognitive development.
By sustaining a nutritious diet, an expectant mother can provide her baby with the necessary building blocks for optimal cognitive development. A well-balanced diet ensures that the baby’s brain receives the nutrients it needs to develop properly, leading to improved cognitive abilities in the long run.
In conclusion, the importance of maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman is not only limited to her own health but also has a direct impact on the cognitive abilities and potential of her baby. By preserving a healthy dietary condition, a mother can enhance her baby’s cognitive abilities and lay a strong foundation for their future success.
Reducing the Risk of Birth Defects
One of the most important conditions for a pregnant woman to sustain the well-being of both herself and her baby is maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet. The nutritional status of an expectant mother plays a significant role in reducing the risk of birth defects.
Why is the dietary status of a pregnant woman so relevant? What is the importance of upholding a nutritious diet during pregnancy? The answer lies in the fact that a mother’s dietary choices directly impact the development of her baby. A lack of essential nutrients can lead to various complications and increase the chances of birth defects.
Preserving the nutritional status of a pregnant woman is crucial because it ensures the proper growth and development of the fetus. Essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients are needed for the formation of vital organs and systems, such as the brain, heart, and spine. Without an adequate supply of these nutrients, the risk of birth defects, such as neural tube defects or heart abnormalities, can significantly increase.
Not only does maintaining a healthy diet reduce the risk of birth defects, but it also promotes the overall well-being of the expectant mother. Pregnancy is a physically demanding process that requires additional nutrients to support the growth of the baby. By upholding a nutritious diet, a pregnant woman can provide her body with the necessary energy and nutrients to sustain the pregnancy and ensure her own well-being throughout the journey.
In conclusion, the significance of maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman cannot be overstated. By sustaining a healthy diet, expectant mothers can reduce the risk of birth defects and promote their own well-being. It is important for every pregnant woman to understand the relevance of dietary choices and take the necessary steps to uphold a nutritious and balanced diet.
Ensuring Proper Organ Function
The nutritional status of an expectant mother plays a crucial role in upholding the well-being and preserving the proper functioning of her organs. Proper organ function is of utmost importance for the overall health and condition of both the mother and the growing baby.
During pregnancy, the body experiences significant physiological changes to accommodate the growing baby. These changes place extra demands on the mother’s organs, such as the heart, kidneys, liver, and digestive system. In order to sustain these organs and ensure their proper function, it is essential for the pregnant woman to maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet.
Why is maintaining a nutritious diet important for the mother?
The significance of maintaining a proper nutritional status for a pregnant woman cannot be overstated. The mother’s organs, including the heart, kidneys, and liver, need adequate nutrients to function optimally and support the additional workload that pregnancy brings.
For example, the heart works harder during pregnancy to supply oxygen-rich blood to both the mother and the baby. A deficiency in nutrients like iron and B vitamins can lead to anemia and cardiovascular problems, compromising the mother’s cardiovascular health.
The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the mother’s blood and maintaining fluid balance. Good nutrition is important for supporting renal function and preventing complications such as fluid retention, high blood pressure, and kidney dysfunction.
The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing nutrients and eliminating toxins from the body. Adequate nutrition is essential for preserving liver function and preventing conditions like fatty liver disease and gestational diabetes.
What is the relevance of maintaining a nutritious diet for the baby?
The nutritional status of the mother directly affects the baby’s growth and development. The developing baby relies entirely on the mother for its nutritional needs. A well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet is crucial for providing the necessary building blocks for fetal growth, brain development, and overall health.
Proper organ function in the mother ensures that the baby receives adequate oxygen and nutrients through placental circulation. Nutrient deficiencies in the mother can result in fetal malnutrition and developmental problems.
In conclusion, maintaining a nutritious diet is of utmost importance for both the mother and the developing baby. It is essential for sustaining proper organ function, upholding the well-being of the mother, and promoting optimal growth and development of the baby. Ensuring that the expectant mother receives adequate nutrition is vital for a healthy pregnancy and a successful delivery.
Promoting Healthy Weight Gain
A pregnant woman’s nutritional status is of utmost importance for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. How much weight she gains during pregnancy is directly relevant to preserving her health and the significance of upholding a healthy weight gain cannot be underestimated.
Why is maintaining a healthy weight gain so important for an expectant mother? The answer lies in the fact that a woman’s dietary intake directly affects her own health as well as the development of her baby. By sustaining a balanced and nutritious diet, she provides essential nutrients for the proper growth and development of the fetus.
Excessive or inadequate weight gain during pregnancy can have negative consequences for both the mother and the baby. An excessive weight gain can increase the risk of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and complications during childbirth. On the other hand, inadequate weight gain can lead to poor fetal development, low birth weight, and a higher risk of birth defects.
So, what can an expectant mother do to promote healthy weight gain during pregnancy? The answer lies in adopting a well-balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is also important to avoid excessive calorie intake or restrictive diets to maintain a healthy weight.
It is worth mentioning that maintaining a healthy weight gain is not about achieving the perfect body shape but about providing optimal nutrition for both the mother and the baby. A healthcare provider can guide pregnant women on the appropriate weight gain goals based on their pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI).
In conclusion, promoting healthy weight gain is crucial for the well-being of both the expectant mother and her baby. By maintaining an appropriate weight gain and sustaining a balanced and nutritious diet, pregnant women can ensure optimal health conditions for themselves and their babies.
Enhancing Nutrient Transfer to the Baby
One of the most important factors in the health of a pregnant woman and her baby is maintaining the nutritional status of the mother. It is vital for the expectant mother to have a well-balanced and nutritious diet to sustain her own health as well as provide necessary nutrients to the growing baby.
But why is it so important to focus on enhancing nutrient transfer to the baby? The answer lies in the relevance of a pregnant woman’s dietary condition to the wellbeing of the developing fetus. The nutritional status of a pregnant woman directly affects the growth and development of the baby, and insufficient nutrient transfer may lead to complications and health issues later in life.
What is the significance of upholding the nutritional status of a pregnant woman?
A pregnant woman requires a variety of nutrients for her own health and the proper growth of her baby. Adequate intake of nutrients such as protein, iron, calcium, folic acid, and vitamins is necessary to support the metabolic needs of both the mother and the developing baby. This ensures optimal growth, organ formation, and healthy birth weight.
How can we enhance nutrient transfer to the baby?
- Following a balanced diet: A pregnant woman should consume a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. This provides the necessary nutrients for the baby’s growth.
- Supplementation: In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend prenatal supplements to ensure adequate intake of certain nutrients. These supplements act as a complement to a healthy diet.
- Avoiding harmful substances: The consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and certain medications can negatively impact the transfer of nutrients to the baby. It is essential to avoid these substances during pregnancy.
- Regular prenatal check-ups: Regular visits to healthcare professionals allow for monitoring the mother’s nutritional status and making necessary adjustments to ensure optimal nutrient transfer to the baby.
In conclusion, the importance of maintaining the nutritional status of a pregnant woman is evident, given its direct impact on the growth and development of the baby. Enhancing nutrient transfer to the baby through a well-balanced diet and other measures is crucial for the overall health and wellbeing of both the mother and the child.
Supporting Postpartum Recovery
The nutritional status and well-being of a pregnant woman are of utmost relevance and significance, not only for the health of the lady herself but also for her baby. Preserving a good condition for a pregnant mother is important throughout the entire pregnancy, including the postpartum period.
What is postpartum recovery?
Postpartum recovery refers to the period immediately following childbirth when a woman’s body undergoes various physical and hormonal changes as it returns to its pre-pregnancy state. This recovery phase is crucial for the mother’s overall well-being and ensuring a healthy transition into motherhood.
Why is supporting postpartum recovery important?
Supporting postpartum recovery is essential to help the new mother regain her strength, rebuild her body, and cope with the physical and emotional demands of motherhood. During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through significant changes, and providing the necessary support during the postpartum period can aid in the healing process.
Maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet is particularly important for a postpartum woman. After childbirth, a woman’s body needs to replenish nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that were depleted during pregnancy and childbirth. A healthy diet can play a crucial role in restoring a woman’s energy levels, supporting breastfeeding, and promoting overall recovery.
Additionally, supporting postpartum recovery can have a positive impact on the mental and emotional well-being of a new mother. Adequate nutrition and support can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression and assist in managing the hormonal shifts that occur during this time. It allows a woman to focus on her own recovery while taking care of her newborn.
In conclusion, upholding the nutritional status of a pregnant woman is not only important during pregnancy but also during the postpartum period. A healthy and balanced diet plays a vital role in supporting postpartum recovery, ensuring the well-being of the mother and her ability to care for her infant.