Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation for many women, but for many in India, it can also be a perilous experience. According to experts, maternal mortality rates in India remain high, and women often face serious risks during pregnancy and childbirth. These risks are compounded by a combination of socio-economic, healthcare, and cultural factors. Here are seven key reasons why women in India are at greater risk during pregnancy, according to experts.
1. Lack of Access to Quality Healthcare
One of the primary factors contributing to high maternal risk is the lack of access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural and remote areas. Many women in India live far from health centers or hospitals and have limited access to trained healthcare professionals. Even in urban areas, the gap between public and private healthcare quality can result in significant disparities. Poor healthcare infrastructure and the lack of emergency services or well-equipped hospitals make it difficult for women to receive timely and adequate care during pregnancy and childbirth.
2. Malnutrition and Anemia
Malnutrition is a significant risk factor for pregnant women in India. A large percentage of women, particularly in rural areas, suffer from nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to complications during pregnancy. Anemia, which is widespread among Indian women, especially in low-income groups, is one of the leading causes of maternal deaths. Low iron levels lead to weakness, fatigue, and increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and preterm birth. Inadequate access to proper nutrition or prenatal care only exacerbates the problem.
3. Early Marriage and Teenage Pregnancies
In some parts of India, early marriage and teenage pregnancies are still prevalent. Early pregnancies carry higher risks, as young girls’ bodies may not be fully developed to carry a pregnancy to term. This can lead to complications like preeclampsia, obstructed labor, and maternal exhaustion. Moreover, young mothers are less likely to receive adequate prenatal care, which increases the likelihood of complications for both mother and child.
4. Inadequate Prenatal Care
Despite improvements in maternal health awareness, prenatal care remains insufficient for many women in India. Experts note that a significant proportion of women do not have access to regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations during pregnancy. This leads to undiagnosed conditions like hypertension, gestational diabetes, and infections, which can be dangerous for both mother and baby. Inadequate monitoring during pregnancy can lead to preventable complications that may not be detected until it’s too late.
5. Cultural and Societal Norms
Cultural practices and societal norms also contribute to the risks faced by pregnant women in India. In some regions, traditional practices, such as avoiding medical interventions during labor, can result in unsafe deliveries. Additionally, women may be hesitant to seek medical help due to fear of judgment or the pressure to adhere to traditional norms. These societal barriers can prevent women from seeking timely and appropriate medical care, increasing the risk of complications.
6. Limited Awareness and Education
Although maternal health education has improved in recent years, a significant gap remains in terms of awareness. Many women are unaware of the importance of prenatal care, the symptoms of complications like preeclampsia, or the need for postnatal check-ups. In rural areas, women often have limited exposure to educational materials, and family members may not have the knowledge to recognize signs of pregnancy-related complications. This lack of awareness results in delayed intervention, which can lead to serious consequences.
7. Economic and Social Inequality
Economic and social inequality play a crucial role in the risks faced by pregnant women in India. Many women from marginalized communities do not have the financial means to access quality healthcare, and they may face barriers such as transportation issues, discrimination, or the inability to take time off work. Lower-income women may also have higher rates of malnutrition, which increases the risk of pregnancy complications. Furthermore, women in certain areas face greater social barriers, including less autonomy in healthcare decisions, which can further exacerbate risks during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Maternal health is an urgent issue in India, and despite progress in recent years, much remains to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of pregnant women. Addressing these risks requires a multifaceted approach, including better access to healthcare, improving awareness and education, tackling cultural norms, and ensuring economic and social equity. By focusing on these areas, India can make strides toward reducing maternal mortality and ensuring that all women have a healthy pregnancy and childbirth experience.
