If there is anytime we need to keep our people in the rural areas enlightened and informed that time is now.

As this would help to tackle the rate of maternal mortality and infant morbidity in Bayelsa State.

From time immemorial, several questions have been raised with no clear answers given to prevent the increased rate of maternal mortality in Bayelsa.

However, majority of these cases usually occur in the rural areas; where pregnant mothers receive treatment from traditional birth attendants (TBAs). This accounts for about 60 percent deaths of pregnant women and babies during delivery. Also financial constraints prevents most pregnant mothers from going to good hospitals or to the nearest primary health care center. Hence Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) remain their last hope; especially in a situation where public awareness is low.

As part of government's effort to combat maternal mortality and infant death rate, the ministry of health under the administration of governor Henry Seriake Dickson is ensuring that there is routine immunization for pregnant mothers, HIV counseling and testing for women, provide iron folate supplement for pregnant women, de-worming of children, vitamin A supplement to keep children healthy and above all create public awareness on the need for pregnant mothers to have periodic antenatal care.

Recently, government has inaugurated a committee for "Safe Motherhood" campaign across the State, mostly in the rural areas, to create public awareness on the need to disassociate themselves from unqualified and untrained Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs). In addition, government has made available a stipend of 3,000 Naira monthly for pregnant women across the State along with other allowances.

However, there is need to correct the impression that the stipends set aside for pregnant women is not to lure them to having children they can’t take good care of. This is only a measure to support pregnant mothers during the duration of pregnancy along with another three (2) months after delivery.

It is paramount to note that government has invested heavily in the health sector; a major policy area of this administration. Which has brought about the 'Health Insurance Bill' a monthly deduction from civil servants in order to fund quality healthcare delivery. More so, Civil servants who are duly registered can make use of the government hospital.

In conclusion, it is important to note that Safe Motherhood and Sensitization campaign, will help to create public awareness that will help to prevent maternal mortality and infant death rate in Bayelsa.

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All mums ah gr8