No maternal deaths in 5 yrs in Mlang

MLANG, North Cotabato—For five consecutive years, this municipality has had zero maternal deaths since it established birthing centers, even in far-flung villages.

Twenty of the 37 villages have their own birthing stations catering to the needs of pregnant women, according to Dr. Glecerio Sotea, municipal health officer.

“With the strong campaign of the rural health unit and with the help of the village midwives, we are hoping to eliminate home deliveries soon,” Sotea said. The establishment of the birthing centers has brought down home deliveries from 55 percent to only 6 percent, he said.

Home deliveries are still being done in indigenous communities, a target sector of the municipal information campaign on the dangers of giving birth at home, Sotea said.

“We are doing everything to cater to the health needs of our constituents,” he said.

Each of the 37 villages has its own midwife and health workers who attend to pregnant mothers. In villages without birthing stations yet, the patients are referred to the nearest health centers. Williamor A. Magbanua, Inquirer Mindanao