Dr. Charity Maina Speaks on Maternal Health and Rhesus Factor: An Interview with the EQUAL Project Co-Principal Investigator
In a recent interview, Dr. Charity Maina, Co-Principal Investigator and Project Manager for the Ensuring Quality Access and Learning for Mothers and Newborns in Crisis-Affected Areas (EQUAL) project, shed light on critical issues in maternal and newborn health in Nigeria.
Dr. Maina, associated with the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), discussed the significance of maternal and child health, the challenges posed by Rhesus factor incompatibility, and the impact of the EQUAL project on maternal health in conflict settings.
Dr. Maina highlighted the importance of comprehensive maternal health services, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in access and quality. She noted that while significant progress has been made, there is still a need for further development to ensure that all women have access to the necessary care.
Addressing Rhesus factor incompatibility, a condition that can affect pregnancy outcomes, Dr. Maina explained how it occurs and its potential impacts.
She stressed the importance of antenatal care, where women are screened and educated about the condition. Dr. Maina also advocated for Rhesus factor testing before marriage, alongside other essential health checks like genotype and HIV tests.
The EQUAL project, a significant initiative led by IHVN and the International Rescue Committee, aims to address the shortage of midwives in rural and hard-to-reach communities in Nigeria.
This project is crucial in a country where maternal and newborn mortality rates remain high. Dr. Maina discussed how the project is contributing to the improvement of maternal health services in conflict-affected areas.
Dr. Maina's insights provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of maternal and newborn health in Nigeria, highlighting both the challenges and the ongoing efforts to improve care and outcomes.
Her advocacy for increased awareness, testing, and access to care underscores the critical role of health education and proactive health management in improving maternal and child health outcomes.
