A recent United Nations report has shed light on the alarming rates of maternal deaths, stillbirths, and newborn deaths worldwide, with India ranking among the top 10 countries responsible for 60% of such fatalities. The report revealed that in 2020, India accounted for over 17% of these deaths, making it the country with the second-highest number of maternal deaths, surpassed only by Nigeria.
The findings emphasized the urgent need for three key interventions to address and reduce maternal mortality rates: adequate antenatal care (ANC) visits during pregnancy, skilled attendance at birth, and postnatal care (PNC) within the first two days after delivery. ANC visits serve as critical opportunities for healthcare workers to educate women about potential complications during pregnancy and labor, as well as after childbirth. These visits also provide women with access to essential micronutrient supplementation, such as iron and folic acid, which play a crucial role in preventing anemia—a condition that can contribute to both maternal and perinatal mortality. Additionally, ANC visits allow for the identification and treatment of hypertension, thereby reducing the risk of eclampsia, and enable women to receive immunizations against tetanus and other endemic diseases.
Skilled attendance at birth is another pivotal intervention highlighted by the report. When a trained health professional is present during childbirth, the likelihood of complications leading to maternal and newborn deaths significantly decreases. Skilled attendants possess the necessary expertise to manage any potential complications promptly and effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of both mother and baby.
Equally important is the provision of postnatal care within the first two days after birth. Postnatal care visits enable healthcare providers to monitor the mother’s physical and mental health, assess the newborn’s well-being, and address any immediate concerns or complications. This crucial period immediately following childbirth is a vulnerable time for both the mother and newborn, and prompt postnatal care can make a substantial difference in reducing adverse health outcomes and preventing potential complications.
While the report highlights the gravity of the situation in India, it is essential to recognize that similar challenges persist in other countries as well. Nigeria and Pakistan, respectively accounting for 12% and 10% of global maternal deaths, also face significant maternal healthcare issues. Addressing the maternal mortality crisis requires a multi-faceted approach, involving not only healthcare interventions but also targeted efforts to address underlying social, economic, and cultural factors that contribute to these high rates.
Governments, in collaboration with international organizations and stakeholders, must prioritize the allocation of resources towards strengthening healthcare systems, improving access to quality maternal healthcare services, and enhancing the training and deployment of skilled healthcare professionals. Investing in comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including family planning services and education, can also play a crucial role in reducing unintended pregnancies and subsequently lowering maternal mortality rates.
Moreover, raising awareness among communities about the importance of maternal healthcare, encouraging early and regular ANC visits, and addressing cultural barriers that may hinder access to healthcare services are all integral components of comprehensive strategies to combat maternal mortality.
It is clear that concerted efforts are necessary to tackle the persisting issue of maternal deaths and improve the overall maternal health outcomes globally. By prioritizing interventions such as ANC visits, skilled attendance at birth, and postnatal care, countries can make significant strides in reducing the burden of maternal mortality and ensuring the well-being of mothers and their newborns.