There are many factors responsible for health problems. Lack of resources and health facilities is the most important reason for the weak health of women. Poor delivery care, non-availability of trained midwives, inaccessibility of health facilities, lack of sanitation and unavailability of clean water all contribute to poor health of women in Pakistan.
Rapid population growth and low budgets for health sector become another reason for health hazard of women. Poverty, illiteracy, women’s low societal standing contributes towards the poor health of women.
There is cultural discrimination in the distribution for resources among male and female children which leads to malnutrition among female which causes higher deaths in babies and children. Patriarchal values system and gender biases affect women’s choices regarding their health and wellbeing.
The extremely narrow approach to women’s rights and dogmas are another reason that women are not getting proper medical attention. So-called values limit the access of women to reproductive health services. The tribal and rural concept of home deliveries raises medical complications of women which they have to bear for the rest of their lives.
Domestic violence is one of the biggest reasons for health complications of women including unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, frequent and high-risk pregnancies, lack of access to family planning services and psychological issues. Frequent births further complicate the health problems.
Pakistan has the potential to reduce its high maternal and child mortality levels and improve women’s status. We just need effective planning and implementation. We must take effective and recommended actions in the areas of family planning, maternal health, and reducing morbidity throughout the life cycle.
Government has to take some hardcore measurement to achieve the targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Investment in the health sector has a long-term beneficial effect. It improves health outcomes, reduces poverty and contributes to promoting economic growth.
Empowering women is another solution to reduce health issues of women. Empowered women will have pro-nutrient food and access to healthcare. If working women get paid for their work in rural areas, or have control over the financial resources of the household it would have a positive impact on their nutrition”.
The government should focus on providing healthcare facilities where health professionals ad trained midwives are available. It can arrange mobile clinics for women where nutritional supplements are also readily available.