Maternal health care ensures that women expecting children do not succumb to various complications during the stages of pregnancy, delivery and post-partum care. Several conditions contribute to the mortality of women during the pregnancy period. For example, an obstruction during the birthing process can contribute to a mother’s death. Other causes of death include hemorrhaging, high blood pressure and infection. In addition to mortality associated with pregnancy and delivery, many women face complications that affect them long after a pregnancy.
Women in low to middle income countries or those in rural areas face additional challenges related to maternal health. For example, countries where malaria is a prominent problem need a sound public health policy on dealing with the prevention and treatment of malaria. Other infectious diseases have an impact on not only the mother, but their newborn children. Diseases, such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS and malaria can have a catastrophic impact on an entire population. Women living in rural areas may have a difficult time reaching or receiving timely care provided by a skilled professional.
The most important component of maternal health is receiving the appropriate health care. During a pregnancy, women should see a doctor on a regular basis to identify any complications with the fetus or herself. As the pregnancy progresses, the number of visits increase to ensure a healthy child. The delivery process requires the attendance of a professional, such as a doctor, midwife or other individual with sufficient training and experience. This helps limit birthing complications that can affect the mother, child or them both. Post-partum concerns, such as depression, infection or post-partum bleeding, also may have an impact on mortality.
A maternal health organization works to ensure the mortality rate for women and children is reduced. Some organizations work toward change through providing educational services through outreach programs. Other organizations provide support by working toward a set of global standards of care. Still others monitor the progress of existing programs, provide training for qualified health personnel or gather funding to support global outreach initiatives. Maternal health organizations help their member countries or states improve the education, training and access to much needed maternal health care programs.
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