Diverse pre-service midwifery education pathways in Cambodia and Malawi: A qualitative study utilising a midwifery education pathway conceptual framework.

Objectives: Educated and skilled midwives are required to improve maternal and newborn health and reduce stillbirths. There are three main approaches to the pre-service education of midwives: direct entry, post-nursing and integrated programmes combining nursing and midwifery. Within these, there can be multiple programmes of differing lengths and qualifications, with many countries offering numerous pathways.

Reasons for delay in decision making and reaching health facility among obstetric fistula and pelvic organ prolapse patients in Gondar University hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Obstetric fistula and pelvic organ prolapse remain highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, where women have poor access to modern health care. Women having these problems tend to stay at home for years before getting treatment. However, information regarding the reasons contributing to late presentation to treatment is scarce, especially at the study area.

Prevalence of obstetric fistula in Malawi.

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of obstetric fistula in Malawi and explore the potential risk factors for developing the condition.

Methods: A community survey was conducted in 9 districts in Malawi, recruiting 3282 women aged at least 12 years using the sibling based method to identify cases of obstetric fistula. Hospital records from 9 district hospitals involved in the community survey and all hospitals offering fistula repair services in Malawi were reviewed.

Emergency obstetric care: how do we stand in Malawi?

Objective: To assess the availability, accessibility, utilization, and quality of emergency obstetric care (EmOC) services in Malawi.

Methods: A complete enumeration was made of all hospitals and a 25% random sample of all health centers, in all districts of Malawi. Enumerators (nurses and midwives) collected data by reviewing facility registers and records, observations, and interviews with health workers to determine extent of utilization of services.