Maternal Mortality in Pakistan: The Potential Role of Community Midwives

Abstract

Current study explored the potential role of Community Midwives (CMWs) in maternal mortality in Pakistan. For this, qualitative research method was employed and data were collected through key informant interviews from 384 respondents including CMWs, healthcare providers like doctors, and expectant mothers. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis. It was found that CMWs are playing pivotal role in five main categories including antenatal care services, postnatal care services, skilled birth assistance, family planning counselling and services, and health promotion and education. CMWs potential role resulted in increased maternal healthcare utilization and improved health outcomes for expectant mothers in their respective communities. However, the issue of maternal mortality is still prevailing in the country. Therefore, there is a need for more comprehensive role of CMWs which may be attained through more specific research towards identification and address of the constraints of the midwifery program.