QUETTA: Maternal mortality in Pakistan remains a serious public health concern, with the national ratio estimated at around 286 deaths per 100,000 live births. In Balochistan, however, the situation is significantly worse, with the rate rising to more than four times the national average.
According to Dr Ayesha Siddiqua, a specialist in maternal and child health, the maternal mortality rate in Balochistan has exceeded 800 deaths per 100,000 live births, reflecting deep structural weaknesses in the province’s healthcare system.
She said the high number of deaths is largely driven by limited access to healthcare facilities in remote areas, shortage of trained medical staff, and delays in emergency obstetric care.
“Most of these deaths are preventable if timely antenatal check-ups, skilled birth attendance, and emergency obstetric services are made available,” she noted.
Health experts say women in rural and far-flung areas often face difficulties in reaching hospitals, while basic health units remain under-equipped to handle complications during childbirth.
Dr Siddiqua stressed the need to strengthen primary healthcare services, improve referral systems, and ensure availability of trained staff in rural health facilities.
Experts have urged the government to launch a targeted maternal and child health emergency programme in Balochistan to reduce preventable deaths and improve access to safe childbirth services across the province.
