Hussain Bux Kolachi, Aneela Attaur Rehman, Muhammad Najeeb Memon, Zebunissa Kolachi.
Common reproductive and general health problems of desert women.
J Liaquat Uni Med Health Sci Jan ;12(1):39-43.

OBJECTIVES: To document Socio cultural and demographic profile of desert women and to document their reproductive , gynecological , general health problems and mode of transportation and utilization of Health services. DESIGN: It descriptive cross sectional study. SETTING: Mother and child health center Batangari Taluka Mithi District Tharparkar supported by Asia Foundation and Run by NGO with support of Asia Foundation. METHODS: Survey of 129 women registered in MCH Batangari was interviewed through questionnaire and clinical examination was performed by lady doctor and findings were written on the questionnaire and data was analyzed. RESULTS: The total 129 women interviewed only 1(0.08%) was unmarried and 128(99.02%) were married, the age range was between 11 to 50 years . age of menarche was 13 years age of marriage was earliest at 12 years and first pregnancy was reported in the teen age. The reproductive health problems were mainly UV prolapsed in 14(10.08%) Mass in abdomen in 12 (9.30%) women, Infertility in 14(10.80%) IUDS and missed abortion 1.55% while. Anemia was present in 15(11.9%) women while general health problem were back ache 12(9.30%) vertigo in 10(7.75%) While chest pain /cough (suspected TB) 12(9.30%) women. Weakness and nutritional problems were also mentioned. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that desert women are facing multiple problems rooted in culture on one hand and lack of reproductive health care facilities as well availability of lady doctor or gynecologist on the other hand. The early age marriage, early menarche and teen pregnancies were found common problem leading to complex reproductive care needs for desert women. The uterus prolapsed was serious condition and needed surgical operation. Training of DAIS was also important area of attention. Lady Doctor and gynecologist are extremely shortage in Tharparkar Gynae camps should be held yearly in Tharparkar.

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