Factors Affecting Maternal Mortality and Morbidity in Bangladesh

Abstract

Maternal health knowledge is a critical indicator to prevent maternal mortality and morbidity in Bangladesh. This study explores the associated factors influencing maternal health knowledge among women of reproductive age and caregivers of mothers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 120 women aged 13–49 years and beyond in a three purposively selected region of Bangladesh along with 12 KIIs with health workers, community members and local representatives. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression. Findings indicate that over 95% respondents could not identify key danger signs or the appropriate healthcare provider for maternal complications. While 65.8% had sought emergency obstetric care (EmOC), 99.2% had gone to wrong facilities. Findings also revealed that educational attainment and understanding of antenatal and postnatal care emerged as the strongest predictor of maternal health knowledge, with women holding secondary and higher secondary certificates and a bachelor degree being over 46 times and 58 times more likely to be informed compared to those without formal education. Beyond individual education, government performance in delivering maternal healthcare services were also found significant influence. Women living in ‘medium’ performing area reported to have more than 8 times better knowledge compared to those in ‘best’ performing areas, suggesting possible disparities in service delivery data and awareness across contexts. Additionally, correct understanding of the purposes of antenatal and postnatal care was positively associated (AOR: 5.99) with maternal health knowledge, highlighting the importance of health education in promoting informed care-seeking behavior.