Maternal mortality in Pakistan: Challenges, efforts, and recommendations
Sean Kaisser Shaeen, Zoaib Habib Tharwani, Wajeeha Bilal, Zarmina Islam, Mohammad Yasir Essar
Abstract
Maternal mortality is a major concern in various countries across the globe and particularly Pakistan. Regardless of the fact that the maternal mortality rate is steadily decreasing over time, Pakistan still faulters below the progress necessary to reach its set goals. Challenges such as lack of skilled staffing, the facilities to house them, lack of education as well as social constraints are proving to be significant obstacles for the healthcare system of Pakistan and its attempts to reduce the maternal mortality rate. Furthermore, the rural environments of the country, poverty constraints, and general ignorance continue to exacerbate the factors previously listed. In order to address these issues, the government needs to work alongside international organizations to acquire funding to build new facilities, particularly in rural areas, train skilled staff, educate on the benefits of antenatal and delivery care, and provide additional funding to subsidize the care itself for those in need. This with further research done in order to assess the effectiveness of various programs and the progress over time will make an impact on reducing the maternal mortality rate in Pakistan.