KARACHI: Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho has called for stronger family planning measures after a woman’s third Caesarean section, saying repeated C-sections are contributing to maternal health risks in the province.
Speaking at the 4th International Family Planning Summit in Karachi, Dr Pechuho said the Sindh government is expanding maternal healthcare services while working to reduce preventable maternal deaths through improved access to reproductive health services and safe childbirth facilities.
Minister highlights maternal health concerns
The summit was jointly organized by Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ward 9-B, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) under the theme “Youth, Family Planning and Digital Innovation.”
Addressing participants, Dr Pechuho said repeated Caesarean deliveries are associated with increased health risks for mothers and stressed the importance of appropriate family planning counselling.
She stated that women presenting after a third C-section should be counselled regarding tubal ligation (TL) as a permanent contraceptive option, in accordance with medical advice and informed patient consent.
Government outlines maternal healthcare initiatives
The health minister said the Sindh government is converting older dispensaries into birthing stations and training community midwives to provide safe maternal healthcare closer to communities.
She added that ambulance services for obstetric emergencies are being strengthened, while efforts are underway to improve the supply of medicines and essential medical equipment at healthcare facilities.
Experts stress need for family planning and awareness
The summit brought together health experts, researchers and policymakers to discuss maternal and child health, population growth and reproductive healthcare.
Vice Chancellor of Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Prof Amjad Siraj Memon, highlighted the importance of male participation in family planning and said awareness about vasectomy should be expanded. He noted that vasectomy procedures in Sindh increased from 24 cases in 2021 to more than 4,000 in 2025.
Chief Organizer Prof Nighat Shah said Pakistan’s population is growing by approximately six million people annually, while contraceptive use remains at around 34%, leaving many family planning needs unmet.
Participants also highlighted the need to improve access to maternal healthcare, safe delivery services and family planning, noting that pregnancy-related complications remain a significant public health challenge in Pakistan.
Also Read :Police Register Case After Newborn Girl Reportedly Loses Thumb at Rawalpindi Hospital
Today's E-Paper