Birth companions will soon make pregnant women feel comfortable at the time of delivery in labour rooms.
Doctors say when a women goes for delivery, particularly for the first time, she is emotionally weak and in distress. (Ursiti Saini)
The idea is to help women, especially those in their first pregnancy, bear the pain and reduce maternal mortality.
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“It’s a common practice in western countries where husbands remain beside women in labour room during delivery,” said Swapna Das, general manager (maternal health) National Health Mission, Uttar Pradesh. About 25 lakh deliveries take place in a year in Uttar Pradesh.
Letters have been issued to the chief medical officers (CMOs) of all the districts to examine how the plan could be implemented at all government health facilities where deliveries take place.
The CMOs will conduct meetings with doctors at health facilities where deliveries take place and finalise the process for selection of birth companions. The initiative is likely to start after June 15.
“Pregnant woman will choose one of the female members of her family as birth companion. She can be her mother, mother-in-law or anyone else,” Das said.
She said birth companions would not only make pregnant women comfortable but also take care of her after delivery. “She will be given necessary instructions on how to take care of the newborn and the mother,” Das added.
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During delivery, a woman bears immense pain that is equal to breaking of several human bones. If a loved one is close to her, it may help her bear the pain.
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During delivery, a woman bears immense pain that is equal to breaking of several human bones. If a loved one is close to her, it may help her bear the pain.
Gaurav Saigal has over two decades of experience in reporting on public policy, governance, politics, and social issues and extensively covers developments in Uttar Pradesh, including state politics, government policies, infrastructure, the economy, environmental issues, and public administration. He has worked across locations and worked with various media organisations. He has travelled across the state for news reporting. He produces fact-based, balanced, and insightful reports that explain the impact of policy decisions on citizens. He has reported on a wide range of significant stories, from legislative proceedings and elections to development projects, wildlife conservation, and governance reforms. His coverage reflects a strong understanding of regional affairs and a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and well-researched journalism. His articles regularly provide readers with context and analysis on key issues shaping Uttar Pradesh and the nation. He is consistent in field reporting and in-depth coverage of public affairs. His journalism is characterised by clarity, credibility, and a focus on issues of public interest. His coverage reflects a strong understanding of regional affairs and a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and well-researched journalism. His content is characterised by an emphasis on factual reporting, official data, and policy analysis, often explaining the impact of government decisions on citizens and institutions.
