Pregnancy is a transformative and life-changing event, but for many women in India, it comes with heightened risks. Despite significant progress in healthcare, maternal mortality rates remain high in the country, especially in rural and underserved areas. Several factors contribute to this disparity, placing women at greater risk during pregnancy. Experts from various fields highlight seven key reasons behind the heightened risks pregnant women face in India.
1. Limited Access to Quality Healthcare
In India, the healthcare system is often under-resourced, particularly in rural and remote areas. Access to qualified healthcare professionals, modern medical facilities, and timely prenatal care is limited. Many pregnant women are unable to attend regular check-ups or deliver in safe, well-equipped hospitals. This leads to delays in detecting complications, which can be fatal for both the mother and child.
2. Malnutrition and Poor Diet
Malnutrition remains a persistent issue for many women in India, particularly in rural communities. A lack of adequate nutrition during pregnancy can result in complications like anemia, preeclampsia, and low birth weight. Inadequate diet also makes it harder for women to recover post-delivery, increasing the risk of infections and other health problems. Despite various government schemes, poverty and food insecurity continue to hinder proper nutrition for many expectant mothers.
3. High Rates of Anemia
Anemia is a significant concern for pregnant women in India, with a high percentage of women affected by iron-deficiency anemia. This condition reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, putting both the mother and fetus at risk. Anemia can cause fatigue, preterm labor, postpartum hemorrhage, and increase the chances of maternal and infant mortality. While supplements are available, their widespread use remains insufficient due to lack of awareness and healthcare infrastructure.
4. Lack of Awareness and Education
Many pregnant women, particularly in rural areas, lack access to vital information about pregnancy and childbirth. Cultural myths, traditional practices, and low levels of education often prevent women from seeking timely medical advice. Awareness about complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or the importance of antenatal care is low, which hinders early detection and treatment. Many women rely on unqualified local practitioners, increasing the risks associated with childbirth.
5. Inadequate Family and Social Support
Pregnancy in India is often surrounded by traditional and social expectations that can place undue stress on the mother. In some cases, women face physical and emotional abuse, limiting their ability to seek proper medical care. Additionally, family structures are typically large, with high demands on the woman’s time, making it difficult for her to rest and focus on self-care. The lack of social and emotional support can exacerbate the health risks during pregnancy.
6. Unsafe Abortion Practices
While India has legalized abortion under certain conditions, unsafe abortion practices are still a major issue. Many women resort to illegal and unsafe methods to terminate pregnancies, especially in rural areas, due to social stigma or lack of access to medical facilities. These unsafe procedures can lead to severe infections, hemorrhage, and long-term reproductive health issues. Lack of proper family planning and contraceptive use also contributes to unintended pregnancies, leading some women to face unsafe abortions.
7. Limited Skilled Birth Attendants and Emergency Care
While there have been improvements in the number of institutional deliveries, many rural areas still lack skilled birth attendants (SBAs) and emergency obstetric care. Trained professionals who can handle complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, eclampsia, or obstructed labor are in short supply. The absence of timely emergency care can result in preventable deaths and complications for both mother and child.
Conclusion
Maternal health is a pressing concern in India, with several factors putting pregnant women at greater risk. The country’s vast socio-economic and healthcare disparities continue to perpetuate these risks. Addressing issues like access to quality healthcare, education, nutrition, and family support is crucial to improving maternal health outcomes. As the government, healthcare organizations, and communities continue to work towards solutions, the safety and well-being of pregnant women in India must be prioritized to reduce the maternal mortality rate and ensure healthier pregnancies for all.
