A Qualitative Analysis of Community Perspectives and Attitudes towards Poor Maternal Health in Rural Punjab Pakistan Sargodha

Abstract

Maternal health is one of the persistent social problem of Pakistan. Statistical data show high ratio of maternal mortality across the country, especially in the rural areas. Despite the government efforts, the magnitude of the problem could not be minimized in the previous decades. This article aims at investigating the community perspectives and attitudes towards poor maternal health in Rural Sargodha Punjab, Pakistan. Review of literature shows the efforts of Pakistani government together with international partners to decrease maternal mortality but community response seems to be an encompassing responsible factor. The research design of the study followed the qualitative research methodology. Respondents from the selected community were identified during community meetings including married women of reproductive age and male decision-makers. For the purpose of data collection, a loosely structured interview protocol was developed. Data saturation was confirmed though transcriptions of seven focus groups conducted for this purpose. The major themes derived from the collected data were Perception about maternal health seeking knowledge, Role of Decision-makers in care seeking and Cultural Practices and Maternal Health. It is concluded that maternal health is largely influenced by the social structures, cultural practices and lack of decision making power among women. Such influencers determine the health seeking behaviors in rural areas in Pakistan. Educational programs focusing women and their families aiming at improving maternal health in rural areas are recommended for the country to mitigate the high risk of maternal mortality of a common woman.