Abstract

PIP: The value of mothers' health cards that are kept at home is discussed, with particular reference to a pictorial card developed for use by illiterate traditional birth attendants in India. The existence of records in this form contributes towards the early detection of women at risk and encourages self-care. For the successful introduction of record cards where female literacy is poor and birth attendants lack technical skills, training is needed so that the cards can be completed, and skills have to be learned. Consideration has to be given to the cost, size, color and format of the card and to linkages with child growth care. Additionally, the following issues need to be addressed before introducing the cards in national programs: 1) The items to be included should be decided in the light of local problems, the training background of birth attendants, and the felt needs of the community, 2) Methods should be devised to maintain continuity of care. The incorporation of child growth cards may mean losing subsequent information on pregnancy or periods between pregnancies, and 3) The cards should generate basic service statistics and be linked up with existing information systems.