Enhancing Maternal Health: Key Actions Parliamentarians Can Take to Improve Medicine Quality

Many medicines for maternal health care are not as reliable as they should be. This is especially true for medications used to handle postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which is a leading cause of maternal deaths. In low- and middle-income countries, many healthcare providers struggle to trust the medicines they have.

Recently, Senator Oral Ataniyazova of Uzbekistan and Professor Tari Turner, a leader at the UN’s Special Programme in Human Reproduction, discussed the importance of quality medicines for mothers and newborns.

Senator Ataniyazova emphasized that: Access to safe and effective medicines is essential to prevent needless deaths during childbirth. The issue disproportionately affects the poorest women, which is an injustice that needs to change. Maternal mortality rates remain stagnant in many regions, but better laws and regulations can make a difference. Parliaments have the power to ensure quality medicines, benefiting health, equity, and development overall. Strong democracies are necessary to create accountability and transparency in healthcare.

Professor Turner pointed out: As a researcher, I believe that the quality of medicines helps build trust in health systems. Unfortunately, many nations face challenges like limited data and poor infrastructure, making it hard to ensure that quality standards are met.

Senator Ataniyazova added that to make progress, lawmakers should see access to quality medicines as a smart investment in public health rather than just a technical issue. Political will, consistent funding for healthcare systems, and aligning national laws with international standards are key steps.

Recent statistics highlight this urgency: According to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO), around 810 women die daily from preventable complications during pregnancy and childbirth. This emphasizes the need for quality-assured medicines.

How can scientists and researchers contribute? They are crucial in helping lawmakers make informed decisions. High-quality, timely data is often lacking, which complicates the policymaking process. Collaboration between scientists and lawmakers can translate findings into actionable insights.

Senator Ataniyazova highlighted the need to humanize health data by connecting it with real-life stories. This approach can drive home the urgency of improving maternal health and motivate decisive action.

Looking ahead: The collaboration between the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and WHO has bridged the gap between science and policy. In five years, success would include stronger regulations for medicines, increased healthcare budgets, and a focus on maternal health in national agendas. Positive signs will be seen in revised laws, adequate drug supply, and bipartisan discussions prioritizing maternal health.

By addressing these issues, we can work toward a future where quality healthcare is a reality for all women.

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