Title:
Reduction of maternal mortality in Nigeria
Authors:
Miyayi, Fridah Beatrice, Dr.
Year:
2016
PAGE:
ix, 38
Language:
En
Subject:
Maternal Health – Lessons Learned
Keywords:
Maternal Mortality, Three-delays, Pregnancy-related complication, Evaluated interventions, Northern Nigeria.
Abstract:
Background: Maternal mortality refers to the death of a woman during pregnancy or within 42hrs of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of where the pregnancy is situated, cause of death could be incidental or accidental. Maternal mortality is 75% preventable, thus an issue of global public health concern. It still remains high in Low and Middle income countries and in Africa, it is highest in Nigeria. Objectives: The objective of this writing was to explore the enabling and disabling factors influencing high Maternal Mortality in Nigeria, with special focus on Northern Nigeria where maternal mortality remains highest, to be able to recommend possible interventions that have proven to be successful in the reduction of MMR (in the southern region)to the Nigerian Ministry of Health (MOH), and other stake holders. Methodology: The method of choice was a literature review, assessing data sourced out through the internet, that has been done by different researchers and writers, seeking to answer the question why maternal mortality rate in Nigeria is not improving as fast as it should despite interventions. Findings: Leadership is wanting right from the top otherwise policies exist but are not implemented and there are no bodies monitoring this. Poverty is a key factor influencing several aspects of maternal health: be is services offered, accessibility, affordability and even quality of services offered. Shortage of qualified health work force and their distribution in the country takes a fair share of the burden in maternal mortality. The insecurity in the North by the militant Islamic group Boko Haram has left a vast area in the north affected and subsequently reduced the accessibility and availability of health facilities. Improving the transport sector especially the roads/means of transport in the rural areas will influence maternal health services utilization. Some essential drugs are needed to be available even to the traditional birth attendants as they over-see a large percentage of home births. Outdated religious and cultural beliefs are still being practiced and this negatively impacts on maternal deaths. Most health facilities are ill equipped for emergency obstetric services. Unsafe abortion is a key player in maternal mortality and this has to do with the laws surrounding abortion. There is poor family planning uptake due to a variety of reasons. Child marriage practices and teenage pregnancies are influencing the high maternal mortalities. Education amongst women and the community is essential for reduction of maternal deaths to be achieved. Lack of women empowerment indirectly contributes to high maternal mortality rates. Conclusions and Recommendations: It is evident that a lot needs to be done on the ground in Nigeria as a whole that will most definitely positively impact on maternal health in general. Good leadership will go a long way in changing what is happening in Nigeria, especially the eradication of corruption. Woman education and empowerment will facilitate a change in the independence and human rights of a Nigerian woman. Some cultural practices are outdated and need to be abolished. Religious leaders should actively be involved in conjunction with community elders to ensure smooth transition of behavioral change, which will further enhance acceptance of current medical methods that are aimed at reducing maternal mortality. Country should invest in retaining their trained medical work force to reduce brain drain. Continuous medical education should be part and parcel of the requirements a practicing medical personnel should have to under-go to ensure quality maternal health service delivery.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
,
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institue)
Department:
Development, Policy and Practice
Country:
Nigeria, Federal Republic of
Region:
West africa
Training:
Master of Public Health/International Course in Health Development (MPH/ICHD)
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2016 Miyayi
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
C4nECieT49_20170503164524155.pdf