After experiencing a difficult birth with her first child, Odile Razafinganahary decided she would do everything by the book during her second pregnancy to ensure she gave birth to a healthy baby. She was committed to keeping herself healthy, even though prenatal care is not widely available in Itaosy -- the rural Malagasy farming village where she lives -- especially for families of little means. Odile met with a skilled midwife at the local health facility and had five prenatal visits during which she learned she was carrying twin boys. When labor began, this young mother was ready, confident she had done everything she could to ensure the safe arrival of her twins.

To read the full blog from Jhpiego President and CEO Leslie Mancuso, visit The Huffington Post website.