Vol. 1, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Access to skilled midwifery care is critical in ensuring safe pregnancies and childbirth experiences, yet remains disproportionately limited for marginalized populations globally. This study explores the multifaceted barriers faced by women in underserved communities, including financial constraints, cultural stigmas, poor infrastructure, and limited healthcare awareness. Conducted as a cross-sectional survey in three socioeconomically backward districts, the study involved 420 women of reproductive age who had given birth within the previous two years. The findings revealed alarming disparities, with over 70% of participants reporting at least one major obstacle to accessing skilled midwifery care. The most cited issues included high out-of-pocket costs, inadequate transportation, cultural taboos, and mistrust in the healthcare system. These results underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms in public health outreach, cultural sensitivity training, and infrastructural upgrades to ensure equitable access to maternal care services for all segments of the population.