Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Maternity Allowance Effects on Maternal Health in Rural Areas of Bangladesh

This research explored the impact of maternity allowance on the health of mothers in rural region of Bangladesh. The financial assistance is provided to mothers during pregnancy, with the goal of enhancing maternal health by improving access to vital healthcare services, proper nutrition, and postnatal support. It further investigated the obstacles encountered by service recipients, including limited awareness, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and challenges particularly among economically disadvantaged women. Data was gathered through using both quantitative and qualitative methods, including local healthcare reports, government data, and interviews with recipients of the allowance. The results showed that maternity allowance greatly enhances maternal health by improving access to vital prenatal and postnatal care. Additionally, the allowance contributes to improved mental health by reducing stress and anxiety related to financial hardship during pregnancy. The allowance also contributes to medication, checkup and intake of nutritious food of mothers during pregnancy and after childbirth along with ensuring appropriate childcare, access to medical treatment, and sufficient nutrition for their children. The study emphasized the importance of maternity allowance in encouraging timely medical visits, lowering maternal mortality rates, and promoting the health of new-born. The study suggested that wider implementation of maternity allowance programs could lead to long-term improvements in maternal and child health in similar rural areas across Bangladesh for achieving sustainable development goals.