Patna: Bihar has recorded significant improvement in maternal and newborn healthcare, with more pregnant women accessing health facilities for antenatal check-ups, childbirth and postnatal care.
The share of institutional deliveries has risen to 81.1%, while coverage of antenatal care (ANC) during the first trimester has also increased. The changes indicate greater engagement with healthcare services from early pregnancy through the period after childbirth.
Institutional Deliveries Rise To 81.1%
According to National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6) data cited in the report, the proportion of institutional deliveries in Bihar has increased from 76.2% to 81.1%.
The nearly five-percentage-point increase over around three years has been viewed as an indication of improved access to maternal health services.
The increase is also being observed in rural areas, where more women are choosing health facilities for childbirth.
First-Trimester ANC Coverage Improves
Access to antenatal care during the early stages of pregnancy has also increased.
The proportion of women receiving ANC during the first trimester has risen from 52.9% to 63.9%.
Meanwhile, the proportion of women receiving at least one ANC service has increased from 81.6% to 94%.
Early and regular antenatal care can help healthcare providers identify potential health concerns during pregnancy and ensure timely monitoring and care.
Postnatal Care For Mothers And Newborns Improves
The improvement extends beyond childbirth, with increased coverage of postnatal care for both mothers and newborns.
The proportion of mothers receiving postnatal care within two days of delivery increased from 57.3% to 69.9%.
During the same period, the proportion of newborns receiving care within the first two days increased from 59.3% to 76.2%.
These services are important for monitoring the health of mothers and newborns immediately after delivery.
Continuity Of Care From Pregnancy To Postpartum Period
Parimal Jha, a representative of the Piramal Foundation, said the figures should not be viewed only through the lens of institutional deliveries.
He said continued engagement with healthcare services from pregnancy through delivery and the postnatal period is important for maternal and newborn health.
According to him, simultaneous improvement in ANC, institutional deliveries and postnatal care indicates stronger continuity of healthcare services.
Government Hospitals Continue To Play Key Role
Government health facilities remain an important part of Bihar’s maternal healthcare network.
According to the figures cited in the report, 57.5% of deliveries in Bihar took place in government hospitals.
In rural Bihar, the proportion was 58.4%, indicating the significant role of public health institutions in providing maternity services, particularly in rural areas.
The increase in institutional deliveries, early ANC coverage and postnatal care points to a broader shift towards greater use of formal healthcare services during pregnancy and childbirth.
