Exploring Maternal Health in Somalia: The Maternity Care Journey

Somalia, a country working to overcome years of turmoil, faces a significant challenge: poor maternal health. With maternal mortality rates at an alarming high, efforts to enhance maternal care are crucial. This study delves into the journey of maternal care in Somalia, focusing on the levels of completion and coverage across the maternity continuum. Somalia's health system has been deeply affected by years of underdevelopment and conflict. Despite these challenges, it's essential to understand how well the maternity care journey is being completed by women in the country. This continuum includes prenatal care, delivery assistance, and postnatal support. Recent data shows that Somalia has one of the lowest maternal health indicators globally. The maternal mortality ratio stands at 621 per 100, 000 live births, highlighting the urgent need for improvements. This study aims to shed light on where the system might be falling short and where improvements can be made. Critical to the analysis is understanding the barriers women face in completing their maternity care journey. This could range from lack of access to healthcare facilities to cultural beliefs that prevent women from seeking medical help. By identifying these barriers, policymakers can develop targeted interventions to enhance maternal health outcomes. Moreover, the study considers the broader context of Somalia's healthcare system. Years of conflict have left the infrastructure weak, making it difficult to provide consistent and quality care. However, recognizing these challenges is the first step towards addressing them effectively. In conclusion, exploring the maternity continuum of care in Somalia reveals the complexities and urgent needs in improving maternal health. By understanding the current landscape, Somalia can take steps towards a healthier future for its mothers.