Nourishing Motherhood: A Self-Paced Online Nutrition Curriculum For Women to Support Mental Well-Being and Optimize health During Pregnancy and Post Birth

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major public health burden, affecting approximately one in seven women and contributing to numerous adverse outcomes that include poor maternal-infant bonds, failure of breastfeeding, negative parenting practices, and marital discord. Nutrition has been increasingly recognized as a modifiable risk factor in the prevention and management of depressive symptoms, yet nutrition education remains underutilized in perinatal care. This project aimed to develop an accessible, evidence-based online nutrition curriculum designed for women from preconception through the postpartum period. The curriculum comprises five evidence-based modules rooted in Social Cognitive Theory to promote learner engagement, self-efficacy, and sustained behavior change. A targeted needs assessment conducted as part of a previous graduate project via social media identified a high demand for accessible, trustworthy, and practical nutrition guidance, particularly in the areas of postpartum recovery, breastfeeding support, and self-care. Designed to overcome barriers such as geographic location, time constraints, and limited access to providers, this curriculum offers an accessible and relevant resource that empowers women with the knowledge and tools to support their physical and mental well-being. By addressing the nutritional dimensions of maternal health, it is the hope that this project will contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at reducing the incidence of PPD throughout Alaska and across the country.