R Sohail, S K Lodhi, F Maqsood, F Zaman.
Reproductive Health Profile in Rural Population.
J Surg Pak Jan ;6(3):31-3.

A survey was conducted in May 1999 to assess the status of reproductive health practices in the rural population of district Kasur. A total of 1,634 women were interviewed besides traditional birth attendants (TBAs) and lady health visitors (LHVs). Three quarter of women were illiterate and two thirds were married by the age of 19 years. Eighty six percent delivered at home. Most of the TBAs were illiterate and had no training, while all the LHVs were educated and had had training. This difference in education and training was reflected by their attitudes towards handling of complications. The referral rate by traditional birth attendants was only 2.3% that was much less than lady health visitors who refer quite often depending on the gravity of the situation. Pakistan is a populous country with annual growth rate of 2.8% and the vast majority living in rural areas. Illiteracy, tradition and attitudes contribute to prevailing situation.

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