Reproductive and Child Health Program
The Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) Program is a core initiative of the Burma Medical Association (BMA), dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of mothers and children in conflict-affected and hard-to-reach areas of Karen State, Myanmar.
The program addresses the high rates of maternal and infant mortality by ensuring access to essential healthcare services for vulnerable populations through fixed clinics, outreach activities, and community partnerships.
Background
Myanmar continues to face significant challenges in maternal and child health, particularly in rural and border areas where healthcare access is limited. To bridge this gap, the RCH Program was established to deliver comprehensive reproductive and child health services.
Through an integrated approach, BMA strengthens local health systems, supports professional midwives and community health workers, and provides ongoing supervision and monitoring to maintain quality care.
The program’s services include antenatal and postnatal care, safe delivery assistance, family planning, neonatal care, and nutrition support for pregnant and lactating women.
Key Activities
Maternal Health Services
The RCH Program offers full maternal care — from early pregnancy checkups and skilled delivery attendance to postnatal follow-up and emergency referrals. Services focus on reducing preventable complications and improving the safety of mothers and newborns.
Family Planning
Women and couples receive counseling and access to a range of contraceptive options, empowering them to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and family size.
Child Health
Health workers provide care and treatment for common childhood illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia, promote immunization, and support caregivers in monitoring children’s growth and development.
Nutrition Support
To combat malnutrition, the program distributes monthly nutrition packages and conducts cooking demonstrations using locally available ingredients. Education sessions reinforce healthy feeding practices among mothers and caregivers.
Health Education and Awareness
More than 300 health education sessions are delivered annually, focusing on maternal health, newborn care, family planning, gender-based violence prevention, and sexual and reproductive health rights. These sessions strengthen community knowledge and encourage positive health behaviors.
Community Engagement
Village Health Committees (VHCs) are central to the RCH Program’s community-based approach. Through 20 active VHCs, local members help coordinate referrals, support clinics, and participate in health planning. Women’s participation in leadership and decision-making is strongly encouraged.
Outreach Services
Continuous training is provided for healthcare workers, Traditional Birth Attendants (TTBAs), and clinic staff to improve service quality. Activities include CME sessions, pharmacy management training, and refresher workshops focusing on clinical care, infection control, and respectful maternity practices.
