Maternal Mortality Rates On The Rise Due TO Growing Number of Expectant Mothers Refusing Male Doctors

Expectant mothers in central Zambia are said to be refusing to have their babies delivered by a male nurse. Concerns are now growing that the women will take matters into their own hands leading to a seriously increased risk of maternal mortality. 

Daily Nation newspaper has reported that the mothers at Kalwa Health Centre feel uncomfortable with their babies being delivered by a person of the opposite sex. Some mothers said they considered it a taboo and against traditional practice for their babies to be delivered by a male nurse and not a female one.

Health officials have urged the government to immediately address the issue before mothers resort to delivering their babies from home, a practice which can lead to birthing complications and a high risk of infection. 

Health minister, Dr Chitalu Chilufya is currently in Geneva, Switzerland, attending a conference.