Multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) for pregnant women is more effective than iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation in improving birth outcomes, has equivalent benefits in preventing maternal anaemia, and is safe for mothers and babies. Building on previous cost-effectiveness work around MMS, we partnered with the government in Pakistan to conduct pioneering implementation research on what it would take to switch from IFA to MMS, prioritizing both human-centred design and gender-responsiveness. This is critical for the path to MMS scale-up and advances maternal nutrition both in Pakistan and globally.
To enhance the health and nutrition of newborns, we supported the delivery of birth package interventions, including delivery by skilled birth attendants, optimal timing of cord clamping, nutrition counselling, clean cord care with chlorhexidine, and kangaroo mother care for babies born too early or too small.
