The reality of women and maternal healthcare in India

India is grappling with a significant challenge in the realm of women and maternal healthcare. A 2019 report reveals that about 52% of India’s 353 million women of reproductive age wish to avoid pregnancy, yet 45% of pregnancies are unintended. Additionally, around 14 million women of reproductive age do not receive necessary treatment for curable STIs, contributing to preventable deaths, including those related to pregnancy complications and unsafe abortions. The fifth National Family Health Survey (2019-2021) also highlighted the critical role of education, showing that around 90% of women with 12 or more years of schooling used safe period products, underlining the importance of access to resources.

Despite ongoing initiatives, the country still experiences alarmingly high maternal mortality rates and many women, particularly in rural regions, struggle to access quality prenatal and postnatal care. This lack of support during pregnancy and childbirth often leads to preventable complications and tragic loss of life. Milaap's Women and Maternal Healthcare Fund aims to support causes that work towards maternal and women's healthcare needs, from prenatal care and feminine hygiene to essential treatments and neonatal care.

Milaap steps in to address this urgent need by offering a platform where individuals and organisations can fund essential maternal healthcare services. This includes prenatal and postnatal care, treatment for STIs, access to safe period products, and education on reproductive health. Individuals, NGOs and even healthcare providers can mobilise community support, ensuring that women across India, particularly in underserved areas, receive the care and resources they need.

Your donation can help guarantee that no woman is deprived of the care she requires. Every contribution plays a crucial role in providing access to life-saving medical services, paving the way for a healthier future for mothers and their children.