With this thought in mind, the Ekurhuleni Metro, in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH), recently held a Mother and Child Dialogue, at the Vosloorus Civic Centre.
“We have noticed a growing trend of maternal and child mortality in Ekurhuleni and this indicates to us that there is a need to raise awareness and start the dialogue about maternal death in our communities,” said the Director for Maternal Health at the GDoH, Sikhonjiwe Masilele.
HIV and Aids, haemorrhaging (excessive bleeding) and poor nutrition were some of the factors discussed in the dialogue, which have been identified as causes of child death.
To ensure early detection of diseases and deficiencies, health practitioners emphasised, during the dialogue, the importance of commencing antenatal care early, before 14 weeks of pregnancy and preferably after missing one menstrual cycle.
Those who attended the dialogue were given an opportunity to submit their recommendations on how to decrease the mother and child mortality rate.
According to Themba Gadebe, metro spokesperson, these recommendations will be scrutinised and those that are viable will be implemented.
In making it evident that improving maternal and child health is one of the city’s priorities, a total of 36 903 pregnant women have been registered on the MomConnect system to date.
This is a system where pregnant women are sent a SMS to remind them of their next antenatal appointment and tips on how to care for both themselves and their unborn child.
Member of Mayoral Committee for Health and Social Development, Clr Makhosazana Mabaso, encouraged residents to know their HIV status, in order to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
By doing so, she explained, they will contribute towards the achievement of the goal to eliminate new HIV infections. In her closing remarks, the MMC pleaded with health practitioners present to take care of patients when they visit health facilities and also thanked those who honour their oath in caring for the development of families, communities and the nation.
“Prevention is better than cure. I’m going to start leading a healthy lifestyle from now on and make more informed decisions that will have a positive impact on my heath when I’m ready to become a mother,” said 24 year-old Siyo Somtsewu.
