Evolution and inequalities of the maternal mortality in Paraguay; some challenges for reduction

Abstract

Deaths from causes of pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium reflect deep social inequalities as they are intimately related to access to health services, to the exercise of sexual and reproductive rights, and to poverty, therefore, constitute one of The indicators highly demonstrative of the socioeconomic conditions of a country, the access and quality of maternal health care services and access to full opportunities in society (Mojarro, et al 2003; Diaz Echeverria, 2006). Prevention of these deaths has become an international priority for several decades, including current Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), effective until 2030. In this context, this paper analyzes the evolution and current situation of maternal mortality in Paraguay and review the measures the country has taken in order to lessen the severity of this problem. Descriptive techniques with retrospective data analysis are applied based on data from Mortality Indicators Yearbooks published by the Department of Biostatistics of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare. The study concludes that Paraguay should continue efforts to reduce maternal mortality levels in addition to their causes, taking into consideration social and economic obstacles, with a view to enhancing the quality of life of its inhabitants and achieve the goals they agreed to meet in the at international level. To do so not only design, but also implement policies considering the inequalities in certain geographical areas and age groups.

Keywords

• maternal mortality
• inequality
• Sustainable Development Goals
• Paraguay