RI needs more gynecologists

RI needs more gynecologists

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's population of 196 million people is served by only 800 gynecologists, most of whom practice in urban centers.

Gulardi H. Wiknjosastro of the University of Indonesia in Jakarta says this shortage of gynecologists is the main reason why the pre-natal and post-natal mortality rates remain high in Indonesia.

In an oration marking his induction as a senior staff lecturer at the university's School of Medicine on Saturday, Gulardi said that about 10 percent of all births in Indonesia involve complications, including the necessity for a Caesarian section, which require the services of a gynecologist.

He said that, ideally, Indonesia should have at least 2,000 gynecologists and they should be spread more evenly across the archipelago.

Currently, some of the tasks of gynecologists are being performed by midwives -- including traditional midwives, known locally as dukun anak -- and general practitioners, he said. However, neither of these has sufficient education and training to perform the work involved, he said.

Official statistics show that, in 1994, pre-natal and maternal mortality rates in Indonesia reached 40 for every 1,000 births, while the post-natal mortality rate was 19 for every 1,000 births.

"These figures are still too high," he said.

Gulardi also said that it was still necessary to promote public understanding that expectant mothers should pay special attention to their health, especially between the 22nd and 37th weeks of their pregnancy.

Pregnant women who suffer from hypertension or diabetes mellitus, or have a genetic disorder, are likely pass some effects on to their babies, he said. He added that how the fetus is nurtured has a determining effect on the later development of the child.

Pregnant women who live in polluted environments or smoke tobacco are more likely to give birth to physically or mentally- handicapped babies, Gulardi said. (rms)