Which of the following factors contributes to high maternal mortality rate in India ?

The correct answer is - Early marriage

Key Points

• Early marriage
  • In India, early marriage is a significant factor contributing to the high maternal mortality rate.
  • It leads to early pregnancies, which increase the risk of complications such as preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, and preterm deliveries.
  • Adolescent mothers are often physiologically underprepared for childbirth, increasing the likelihood of maternal deaths.
  • Early marriage often results in limited access to proper antenatal care and healthcare facilities, further exacerbating risks.
  • This issue is more prevalent in rural and socio-economically disadvantaged areas, where cultural norms and lack of awareness play a significant role.

Additional Information

• Other contributing factors to high maternal mortality rates in India:
  • Bad health of women:
    • Many women in India suffer from malnutrition and anemia, which increase risks during pregnancy and childbirth.
    • Poor health reduces the body's ability to cope with the physical demands of pregnancy.
  • Lack of access to antenatal care:
    • Many women, especially in rural areas, do not receive proper prenatal check-ups or monitoring during pregnancy.
    • This increases the chances of undetected complications, such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, leading to higher mortality rates.
  • Poor healthcare infrastructure:
    • The lack of well-equipped hospitals and trained medical personnel in rural areas contributes significantly to maternal deaths.
    • Delays in seeking care, reaching healthcare facilities, and receiving adequate treatment compound the problem.
  • Socio-economic factors:
    • Poverty, illiteracy, and gender inequality limit women's access to healthcare services and education about maternal health.
    • These factors often result in unsafe home deliveries without skilled birth attendants.
• Government initiatives to reduce maternal mortality:
  • The Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) encourages institutional deliveries by providing financial incentives to pregnant women.
  • The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) ensures free antenatal check-ups for pregnant women in their second and third trimesters.
  • The National Health Mission focuses on improving maternal and child healthcare services across the country.