The Perceptions of Health Practitioners about Maternal Health Challenges in District Killa Saifullah, Balochistan

Abstract

Maternal health is a serious global concern, with maternal mortality and morbidity remaining major

challenges in various countries. It includes the health and well-being of women for the duration of

pregnancy, childbirth, and the post-delivery period. In spite of global struggles, countries with less

healthcare resources continue to experience disproportionately great risks to maternal health. In Pakistan,

the condition and situation is predominantly concerning, as many regions, particularly Balochistan, are

cope with inadequate healthcare infrastructure, cultural barricades, and socioeconomic issues. This study

examines the perceptions of health practitioners regarding maternal health challenges in the District of

Killa Saifullah, Balochistan. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit 12 healthcare

professionals from the District. The results elaborate numerous serious barricades to maternal health,

including an absence of antenatal care services, inadequate medical workforce, nutrient deficiencies, and

a deficiency of awareness among the people. In addition, cultural perception such as fleeing from

ultrasound in fear of its application under Islamic culture and the prohibition of seeking medical treatment

due to similar reasons exacerbates the situation. The study found lack of access to important clinical

equipment like laboratories and ultrasound machines, as well as shortage of drugs. The consequences of

maternal health are significantly impeded by low levels of education, socio-economic disparities and low

accessibility to healthcare facilitation. This paper provides insights to improve maternal health in the

District Killa Saifullah, Balochistan by eliminating these barriers that appear to have required quality in

education, greater accessibility to the healthcare structure and culturally tailored counseling