Tuesday 3 August 2010

Why women and babies die

In a recent study published June 21, 2010, Kinney et al state "According to the most recent World Health Organization (WHO) analysis, most maternal deaths in Africa are related to direct obstetric complications that occur around the time of childbirth (mainly hemorrhage, hypertension, sepsis, and obstructed labor, which combined account for 64% of all maternal deaths.) Non-pregnancy related infections, such as HIV/AIDS and pneumonia, account for 23% of the deaths and unsafe abortion accounts for 4% of maternal deaths in Africa. More than half of maternal deaths take place within one day of birth. Malnutrition, including maternal anemia, iodine deficiency, and poor-quality diet, also contribute to maternal mortality and the high incidence of stillbirths and congenital abnormalities. HIV-infected mothers' risk of dying is ten times higher than that of HIV-negative mothers. (Sub-Saharan Africa's Mothers, Newborns, and Children: Where and Why Do They Die?)

When one looks within the existing health care system in South Africa, it is evident that care is not optimal. Why is this so? Is it because midwives are human? Is it perhaps that working conditions are overwhelming?  That when responsibilities are beyond human capabilities, in order to survive emotionally and work every day, the midwife withdraws? Is it possible for one midwife care for 4 women in labour, as well as other demands, simultaneously, without becoming removed and distant? Could it be that she needs to stop caring in order to be able to function on a daily basis?

Perhaps we need to look at creating another way. A way in which we as midwives can maintain our humanity and serve women well that are in our care. But how is this to be achieved? I would suggest with difficulty and with very careful changes. I believe that midwives want to care, they just do not work in environments where this is possible.

Busfare babies is suggesting another way. This is not a new way, in fact it is a very old way. It is a way that can be more beneficial now that we have advanced technologically. Previously all the midwife had was her hands, her little suitcase and no other back up. We now live in an age of gadgets and technology and these really can make childbirth safer when used carefully and when necessary.

The combination of a skilled midwife and the availability of appropriate technology is a formidable force in combating the current statistics that affect women and babies in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The aim of Busfare Babies is to provide good, careful and care-filled care to the woman in the area. It is my belief that within a short space of time, statistics will show that without excessive cost, care can be improved and that less mothers, babies and children will die if we bring back the midwife to the community. This is a system that is being revisited in parts of the developed world with obvious improvements, why not offer it to the developing world and see how simple changes make a big difference.

1 comment:

  1. Dearest Esteems,

    We are Offering best Global Financial Service rendered to the general public with maximum satisfaction,maximum risk free. Do not miss this opportunity. Join the most trusted financial institution and secure a legitimate financial empowerment to add meaning to your life/business.

    Contact Dr. James Eric Firm via
    Email: fastloanoffer34@gmail.com

    Best Regards,
    Dr. James Eric.
    Executive Investment
    Consultant./Mediator/Facilitator

    ReplyDelete