Obstetric Morbidity: A Serious Reproductive Health Concern for Currently Married Women in India

Pandurang Sontakke, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Reshmi R.S., International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Daliya Sebastian, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

This study attempted to understand the level and factors associated with obstetric morbidity among currently married women in selected states of India. Considering the different level of demographic and socio-economic development, four states Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala have been selected for the study. The data used from National family Health Survey-3 (2005-06). The findings suggest that the level of obstetric morbidity was highest in Bihar. The most reported pregnancy related problems were excessive fatigue and swelling in leg, body or face. In the case of post-delivery complication, massive vaginal bleeding and very high fever were the most reported problems. The mean number of problems was higher among women who were from rural areas, Muslims, SC/ST, not educated, with low standard of living and working in primary sector. The results from logistic regression analysis also revealed that the socio-economic and demographic factors have significant association with obstetric morbidity.