Authorities Call For Timely Hospital Reporting

The Chitipa District Hospital has expressed worry over the escalating number of home deliveries during the first quarter of this year, from January to March, writes Patricia Kayuni.

CHITIPA, Malawi - The Chitipa District Hospital has expressed worry over the escalating number of home deliveries during the first quarter of this year, from January to March, writes Patricia Kayuni.

Temwa Mzumara, the Coordinator for Safe Motherhood at Chitipa District Hospital, highlighted that the rise in home deliveries is particularly prevalent in communities surrounding Chitipa Boma.

Mzumara emphasised that pregnant women in these areas often delay reporting to the hospital, leading to deliveries at home or en route.

Mzumara disclosed the concerning statistics, stating, "From January to March, we recorded 15 home deliveries and 41 deliveries en route to the hospital. In March alone, there were 13 home deliveries, with 11 occurring in transit."

She underscored the risks associated with home and en-route deliveries, as they can increase the chances of maternal and neonatal deaths.

Mzumara explained, "When a pregnant woman delays seeking hospital care, both her life and that of the baby are at risk due to the unsafe environment and materials used during delivery."

Furthermore, Mzumara highlighted the loss of dignity experienced by pregnant women when delivering outside a healthcare facility.

She expressed concern over public exposure during roadside deliveries, emphasising the need for immediate action to address the issue.

Mzumara called upon local leaders to enforce by-laws that discourage home deliveries and urged Health Surveillance Assistants (HSAs) to intensify home visits to pregnant women, encouraging them to seek proper medical care in preparation for labour.

Meanwhile, Group Village Headman Namuyemba acknowledged the rise in home deliveries but clarified that some women from outside Chitipa District choose to reside in nearby villages to have easier access to the hospital when labour begins.

"As you are aware, Chitipa shares borders with Zambia and Tanzania. Some women from Zambia come to my village, which is close to the borders, and they get registered under my village. However, I cannot deny that some women from my village have delivered at home or on the way," he stated.

Namuyemba also addressed the issue of women feeling shy about seeking hospital care due to their age, considering it an invalid excuse.