Reproductive Health Behaviour in the direction of Pregnancy and Childbirth among the Kaibartas of Assam

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth are the very important events of women’s reproductive health that requires intensive care.The present study aims to understand reproductive health behaviour associated with pregnancy and childbirth among the Kaibarta mothers from Lakhimpur and Dhemaji districts of Assam. The impact of maternal education on obstetrics health and care-seeking behaviour were also attempted to comprehend. Cross-sectional data were gathered from 306 ever-married Kaibarta mother.  Specially designed pretested reproductive health schedule was used to collect data. BMI is considered to assess the nutritional status of the mother. The majority of Kaibarta mothers had experienced complications during pregnancy among which anaemia was most common. Irrespective of habitation, pregnancy complications are comparatively more common among underweight and overweight mothers. Mothers without any antenatal care had experienced higher pregnancy complications. Home deliveries with untrained traditional dhai are more frequent than institutional deliveries particularly among mothers aged 30 years and above. The positive impact of mother’s education on every aspect of reproductive health has also been apparent.The study highlighted poor health and care-seeking behaviour of Kaibarta mothers due to multiple underscore causes. It is recommended proper health education among every mother to make them aware of maternal health issues and proper utilization of health care services.