Maternal mortality decreased in Karnataka during lockdown

Bengaluru: Maternal deaths in the State declined by 7 per cent during the lockdown months from April to June.

According to the report by the Department of Health and Family Welfare on maternal health programs in the first quarter of 2020-21, in the three months of April, May and June 2019, there were 210 deaths across the state however in the same three months in 2020, there have been 195 deaths.

Dr Rajkumar, deputy director of maternal health programs at the Department, who provided the information, stated that there were many misconceptions that pregnant women and new mothers suffered problems during the lockdown. However, essential facilities were provided for childbirth without discrimination. During the lockdown period, excluding those infected with the coronavirus, new mothers were top priority.

“Essential arrangements were made in all the health centres in the State to see that no pregnant women suffered any problems. Free childbirth was provided along with proper medication at the appropriate time. Facilities being offered have also increased by 75 per cent compared to the first quarter of last year,” he added.

“From April to June, 2.5 lakh babies were birthed in the State, out of this about 1% were twins,” he said.