French authorities are updating the maternity health record – known as the carnet de maternité – to better support expectant and new mothers, with changes taking effect March 1, 2026. The updated document, established by an order dated December 19, 2025, aims to provide comprehensive guidance from the beginning of pregnancy through the postpartum period. A preview of the new model is available on the Ministry of Health’s website.
This update follows revisions to the child health record earlier in 2025 and reflects a commitment to providing up-to-date, evidence-based information to families. The changes underscore the importance of proactive healthcare and support during a significant life transition.
A Five-Part Resource
The revised carnet de maternité is organized into five key sections designed to address the evolving needs of pregnant individuals and new parents:
- Information and Advice: Divided into four phases – discovering pregnancy, thriving during pregnancy, labor and hospital stay, and returning home and the postpartum period.
- Medical Information: Details related to perinatal monitoring, complementing the obstetrical medical record.
- Resources for Healthcare Professionals: To facilitate coordinated care among all providers involved.
- Useful Websites: Providing links to reliable sources of information for parents.
- Local Resources: Helping families identify available local support services.
Increased Focus on Postpartum Mental Health
One of the most significant enhancements centers on raising awareness of postpartum depression. The new version details signs to watch for in new mothers, including unexplained sadness, memory lapses, and unrealistic anxieties about the baby.
The record emphasizes that these conditions are treatable and encourages women to seek support from their partner, a trusted friend, or a healthcare professional, rather than facing difficulties alone. This focus reflects a growing understanding of the importance of mental health during the postpartum period.
Updated Medical Information
The carnet de maternité similarly expands its medical content with additional information on a range of topics relevant to pregnancy and postpartum care.
A Document to Bring to Every Appointment
The maternity health record is provided free of charge by the departmental council during the first prenatal examination, before the complete of the third month of pregnancy.
Pregnant individuals should bring the record to every medical consultation – whether with a doctor, midwife, at a hospital, or at a Maternal and Child Protection Center (PMI) – and continue to do so throughout the postpartum period, which lasts six to eight weeks after birth.
The carnet de maternité is a confidential document, protected by medical confidentiality.
The updated carnet de maternité is intended to be a comprehensive tool for expectant and new mothers, supporting informed decision-making and promoting optimal health outcomes. The document serves as a vital communication link between patients and their healthcare providers throughout the pregnancy journey.
