Literature Review Midwife in Bangladesh Dhaka –Free Word Template Download with AI

Literature Review is a critical analysis of existing research and scholarly works on a specific topic, providing a synthesis of current knowledge. In this document, the focus is on Midwife practices and their significance within the healthcare system of Bangladesh Dhaka. Dhaka, as the capital and most populous city in Bangladesh, faces unique challenges in maternal health due to rapid urbanization, resource constraints, and cultural dynamics. This review explores the role of midwives in addressing these challenges while aligning with global maternal health goals.

Bangladesh has made significant strides in improving maternal and child health over the past decade, with a reduction in maternal mortality rates from 322 per 100,000 live births (1997) to 173 per 100,000 live births (2021) according to the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS). However, disparities persist between urban and rural areas. Dhaka, home to over 25 million people as of 2023, presents unique challenges for maternal healthcare due to overcrowding, limited access to quality services in informal settlements, and a high demand for skilled birth attendants.

Midwifes play a pivotal role in bridging gaps in maternal healthcare. They are trained professionals who provide prenatal care, assist during childbirth, and offer postnatal support. In Dhaka, midwives often work within public health facilities, NGOs, and private clinics to address the needs of diverse populations.

The formalization of midwifery education in Bangladesh began with the establishment of institutions like the National Institute of Health Sciences (NIHS) and collaboration with international organizations. However, traditional birth attendants (TBAs) have long been integral to birthing practices in rural areas. In Dhaka, the transition from TBAs to trained midwives has been gradual but essential for reducing complications such as obstructed labor and postpartum hemorrhage.

Literature highlights that midwifery education in Bangladesh is regulated by the Bangladesh Nursing and Midwifery Council (BNMC), which outlines standards for training, licensing, and practice. Despite these efforts, challenges persist in ensuring equitable access to midwifery services in urban slums and low-income neighborhoods of Dhaka.

Literature Review studies emphasize that midwives are critical to improving maternal outcomes. In Dhaka, their interventions include:

• Prenatal Care: Screening for high-risk pregnancies, managing hypertension, and educating women on nutrition and hygiene.
• Delivery Assistance: Reducing complications through skilled attendance during labor and ensuring safe delivery practices.
• Postnatal Care: Monitoring mother-infant health, detecting early signs of infections or postpartum depression, and promoting breastfeeding.

A 2021 study published in the *Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health* found that midwife-led care in Dhaka reduced the cesarean section rate by 15% compared to hospital-based deliveries. This aligns with global recommendations advocating for midwifery-led models to enhance maternal autonomy and reduce unnecessary medical interventions.

Literature Review identifies several barriers to effective midwifery practice in Dhaka:

• Resource Limitations: Public health facilities often lack essential supplies, equipment, and infrastructure, forcing midwives to rely on limited resources.
• Cultural Norms: In some communities, women may prefer traditional practices or male healthcare providers over midwives, leading to underutilization of services.
• Training Gaps: While BNMC standards exist, continuous education and skill development programs for midwives in Dhaka are insufficient.

A 2022 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) noted that only 45% of women in urban slums of Dhaka receive care from trained midwives. This gap is exacerbated by poverty, lack of awareness about maternal health services, and gender-based discrimination.

Bangladesh’s National Health Policy (2011) recognizes the importance of Midwifes in achieving universal health coverage. However, implementation in Dhaka remains inconsistent. Initiatives such as the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) program have expanded midwife services through mobile clinics and community outreach. Yet, funding shortages and bureaucratic hurdles limit their reach.

Literature also highlights the role of NGOs like BRAC and Save the Children in training midwives for urban populations. These organizations often collaborate with local governments to improve service delivery in Dhaka’s densely populated areas.

Literature Review compares midwifery practices in Bangladesh with other regions, noting that Dhaka’s urban challenges require tailored approaches. For instance, while low-resource settings like sub-Saharan Africa rely heavily on community-based midwives, Dhaka’s scenario involves navigating a complex mix of formal and informal healthcare systems.

Studies from the UK and Australia emphasize midwife-led care as a model for empowering women. Adapting these models to Dhaka requires addressing systemic issues such as stigma around midwifery roles and ensuring regulatory frameworks support their autonomy.

Literature Review suggests the following strategies:

• Increase Funding: Allocate more resources to public health facilities and midwife training programs.
• Community Engagement: Promote awareness campaigns to change perceptions about midwifery in Dhaka’s culturally diverse populations.
• Policy Reforms: Strengthen the BNMC’s oversight and ensure alignment with global standards for midwife education and practice.

The Literature Review underscores that midwives are indispensable to improving maternal health in Bangladesh Dhaka. Their role extends beyond clinical care to encompass cultural sensitivity, community engagement, and advocacy. Addressing systemic challenges through policy reforms, increased funding, and public education will be critical for realizing the full potential of midwifery services in this dynamic urban context.