KARACHI:
Across the country, many women face numerous health challenges, particularly those in rural and backward regions. These challenges stem from a combination of social, cultural, and economic factors that restrict women’s access to healthcare services and information. According to Word Health Organisation, Pakistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world with an estimated 276 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. This is due to a lack of access to quality maternal services, including antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and emergency obstetric care.
Another major challenge is the prevalence of reproductive health problems, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), infertility, and cervical cancer. These issues are compounded by a lack of awareness and education about reproductive health, as well as social and cultural barriers that prevent women from seeking medical care for these conditions. Malnutrition is a significant problem in many areas of the country, particularly among women and children. Poor sanitation and hygiene practices contribute to high rates of infectious diseases, such as diarrhoea, which disproportionately affect women and children.
In Pakistan, women have to adhere to strict gender roles and expectations, which often limit their ability to access healthcare services. Policies and programmes promoting women’s access to healthcare services should be implemented to address these challenges. This includes investing in maternal and reproductive services, improving nutrition and hygiene practices, and promoting awareness and education about women’s health issues. Social and cultural barriers that prevent women from seeking medical care should be addressed and families should be urged to allow women to access healthcare support. By addressing these challenges, we can improve the health and well-being of Pakistani women and create a more equitable and just society.
Tahreem Yasin
Mandi Faizabad
Published in The Express Tribune, April 12th, 2023.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
