A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF POSTPARTUM CARE HINDRANCES EXPLAIN BY HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Postpartum care (PPC) is essential for the health and well-being of both mothers and newborns. Proper postpartum care reduces maternal and infant morbidity and mortality, ensures recovery, and promotes healthy family practices. Despite its importance, utilization of PPC is low in rural and socio-economically disadvantaged populations. The target population for detailed interview is healthcare providers (including doctors, midwives, nurses, LHVs, and LHWs) were selected using purposive sampling. Interview guide was used for conducting in-depth interviews with healthcare providers. Thematic analysis was used. This approach was chosen because it allows for the identification and analysis of patterns within the data. The study concluded that postpartum care (PPC) utilization in rural vicinities of Punjab, Pakistan is influenced by multiple socio-economic, demographic, and cultural factors. The most significant hindrance to the effective utilization of PPC is the lack of knowledge and awareness regarding postpartum complications