Breaking Myths to Ensure a Safe Motherhood

The story of Dhanmati Muduli, an expecting mother

Dhanmati Muduli is a tribal woman with two daughters (ages 15 and 11) and another baby on the way. After some complications with her prior deliveries, she decided to participate in SOVA's "Safe Motherhood Adalat," where she, along with 26 other pregnant women, learned about antenatal care and the benefits of an institutional delivery.

She was surprised about what she learned from SOVA's healthcare experts, as the only knowledge she previously possessed came from her mother-in-low and other village elders, who held many myths and misconceptions. At the training session, she said she was inspired and felt her eyes had finally been opened.

Afterward, Dhanmati entered her name at the maternal registry, received 100 Iron and Folic Acid tablets, a Tetanus shot and 2 antenatal check-ups so far.

Even more importantly, she has convinced her husband and family members to break their myths and listen to the merits of what she learned at the Adalat. They now fully support her new efforts in ensuring a safe pregnancy and safe childcare. The program has also built the confidence of Dhanmati and the other mothers, who are now advocating on behalf of maternal rights and feel good about the role they can play in their society.

Read more about our Reproductive and Child Health Program.