Spotlighting maternal health: why care after delivery is crucial
Health initiatives and family support rightly focus on newborns, but this often leaves the mother’s medical needs sidelined. Comprehensive follow-up care for mothers, incorporated into visits for the newborn, can go a long way toward maternal recovery
The story of maternal health in India is one of progress and challenges. While the maternal mortality ratio has dropped significantly from 254 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2004-2006 to 87 in 2022-2024, the focus often remains on the immediate post-delivery period. After a woman and her newborn leave the hospital, the care she receives is often limited and insufficient.
Postnatal care that meets her needs is essential for her healing and overall well-being. The National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6) reveals that 82.8% of mothers receive postnatal care within two days of delivery, but this figure does not indicate if the care is comprehensive or diverse. India’s maternal mortality ratio reduction is largely attributed to women receiving care during the first two days post-delivery.
However, what remains elusive is the care provided to the mother during the critical 40 days following birth. This period is when the majority of postpartum deaths occur. The absence of a comprehensive postnatal care system leaves many women at risk of complications, such as excessive bleeding, infections, and mental health issues.
More Indian women are also opting for cesarean sections, which require additional care and recovery time. The lack of systematic follow-up care leaves women vulnerable and unsupported during their crucial recovery phase.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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