Methods: This literature review examines the impact of natural disasters on maternal and infant health outcomes, identifies unique risks posed to this population, and explores how Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) data has been used to assess maternal health in disaster settings. A systematic search of PubMed identified four relevant studies published since 2022, focusing on maternal health and emergency preparedness in regions including Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Tennessee.

Results: Findings highlight gaps in disaster preparedness among postpartum women, with many lacking comprehensive emergency plans. Studies also indicate an association between disaster exposure and increased postpartum depression symptoms, as well as shifts in infant feeding practices, such as increased exclusive breastfeeding following hurricanes. The review emphasizes the need for improved disaster preparedness education within maternal healthcare, particularly for low-income and high-risk populations.

Conclusions: Healthcare providers, including midwives, nurses, and doulas, play a critical role in equipping families with emergency preparedness strategies, ensuring access to stable prenatal and postpartum care, and promoting breastfeeding as a sustainable feeding option in crises. Strengthening disaster response efforts with a maternal health focus can improve health outcomes and resilience among pregnant and postpartum individuals during and after natural disasters.