TEHRAN – Representatives from Iran’s UN Population Fund (UNFPA) have praised the country’s health system measures in reducing the mortality rate ratio by 63% from 43 deaths per 1,000 births in 2000 to 16 deaths in 2023.
“Indeed, this great achievement is largely due to Iran’s primary health care network, incorporating prenatal and postnatal care into the system, providing services provided by nurse aides, health professionals and midwives.”
Officials made their remarks on Tuesday during the midwife’s international day, which is observed annually on May 5th.
Midwives play an important role in realizing access to quality health services for women as a human right. They play an important role in promoting maternal and neonatal well-being, and contribute to a significant reduction in deaths from preventable causes during and after pregnancy, Seitrieva noted.
“Even with progress, the situation remains important in some regions due to the inequality that women are at risk of losing their lives twice or even more due to complications from pregnancy and childbirth. The same applies to Iran.
Emphasizing that inadequate care for half of maternal deaths is explained, Seitrieva said the UNPDA will continue to be supported in implementing policies aimed at improving maternal health, maternity services and reducing maternal mortality.
intl. Midwife’s Day
The world tackles an unprecedented number of complex crises, including the ongoing consequences of natural disasters, wars and climate change, disproportionately affecting women and girls in their families, exposes them to greater risks such as pregnancy complications and gender-based violence, and limits access to critical health services.
Midwives can provide up to 90% of sexual, reproductive, maternal, neonatal and adolescent health (SRMNAH) services, even in humanitarian crises.
Minimum resources and equipment allow midwives to provide safe birth and prenatal and postnatal care in critical situations, provide birth services, reproductive health, comprehensive prenatal care, and provide support for survivors of gender-based violence.
It supports breastfeeding, equips the knowledge and tools to help babies receive safe, healthy, reliable nutrition, educate affected communities, and stay safe and healthy in times of crisis.
Despite their important role in the healthcare system in preparing and responding to midwife crisis, they are often not evaluated and excluded from crisis preparation and response efforts.
International Midwife Day is an annual event that celebrates its important role in ensuring midwives and safe births and mother care.
The day also highlights the importance of midwifery in promoting healthy pregnancy, empowering women to make informed choices about their care, and ensuring that all women have access to skilled birthers.
This year’s theme, “Midwife: Important in Every Crisis,” reflects a challenging reality. Midwives serve through vulnerable health systems, conflict zones, natural disasters and pandemics. Often they are the sole providers of sexual and reproductive health services in their community.
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