Improving Maternal-Infant Health for Mayan Women

The Maternal Child Program has been busy hosting clinics as well as having our monthly educational session. We were also able to enroll a new woman into the group who is very excited and grateful to be a part of this program and welcome a new baby, born Sunday, March 18th.

In the beginning of March, Pueblo a Pueblo and Rxiin Tnamet organized a Pap smear clinic in order to encourage annual exams to improve the health of the women within the community in and around Santiago Atitlan. During the monthly educational meetings leading up to the clinic, the women were given individual appointments with the date and location of their exam. They learned about the benefits of receiving a yearly check-up and the procedures involved with such an exam in order to promote informed decision making. Many women report the main barrier that exists to getting this exam is fear. One woman said, “Yes, I have recommended it to my friends and neighbors from my church, but they are very scared and they feel ashamed to come in for the exam. They need to be taught the right information.” At our follow-up session after the clinic, the women were able to share their experiences. Our goal is through clinics such as this, we can help spread correct knowledge about healthcare throughout the community.

This month, our educational session focused on childhood illnesses and when it is necessary to seek medical attention. Children under the age of five, especially those whom are malnourished, are most susceptible to fatal illnesses. Therefore, recognizing early signs can not only result in better health as they grow older, but can also save lives.