Family Planning means consciously assessing and regulating the number and spacing of births; and includes education, counseling, and birth control methods. Parental health literacy is a key component of Family planning and is closely associated with the positive health behavior of children. Research has demonstrated that inadequate parental health literacy contributes to negative health behaviors in children, such as poor nutrition and poor physical activity.
We can improve child outcomes, particularly in areas like nutrition, exercise, safe vaccination, and oral health, by enhancing parents’ health knowledge and competence. Equipping young mothers with the necessary information and skills through health literacy can help enhance maternal and infant health outcomes and reduce health disparities. Family planning not only enhances the quality of life of the mother but also the children and also ensures better management of available resources. Thus, pausing to plan reflects a real commitment to a healthy and productive family.
By Dr. Saumya Saluja
Periodontal Surgeon and Health Educator. The Healthy Indian Project (THIP) – A health literacy platform.