COVID-19: Access to maternal health services in informal settlements of Mumbai

The study conducted by SNEHA (Society for Nutrition, Education, and Health Action) explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal health services in the informal settlements of Mumbai. The research, based on a cross-sectional survey conducted between July and August 2020, focused on the experiences of women who had given birth between April and August 2020.

The study revealed that although the health system in Mumbai managed to continue providing maternal health services during the pandemic, women faced several challenges due to lockdown restrictions, fear of infection, and changes in healthcare service availability. These challenges included reduced antenatal visits, cancellation of planned hospital appointments, and the need to change healthcare providers or hospitals due to service disruptions. Approximately half of the women interviewed reported that their access to maternal healthcare had worsened compared to pre-pandemic levels, and frontline healthcare workers' outreach efforts were also significantly reduced.

The survey found that the majority of the women were able to access institutional care, with 92% receiving antenatal care and 80% delivering in healthcare institutions. However, financial difficulties, concerns about COVID-19 infection, and the absence of family support during delivery were significant worries for many women. Additionally, the availability of child immunization and contraceptive services was affected, contributing to heightened anxiety among postpartum women.

In conclusion, while maternal health services remained accessible, the quality and consistency of these services were impacted during the pandemic. The study recommends increasing awareness about available services, ensuring better outreach by healthcare workers, and utilizing community organizations and social media to disseminate critical health information during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.