Women Giving Birth at Risk in Indonesia to Reduce by 2024

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS), the number of women in Indonesia giving birth under risky conditions decreased in 2024.

This is evident from the decline in the MHPK20 index, which measures the proportion of women aged 15-49 who gave birth to their first child before the age of 20.

"Women who become pregnant under the age of 20 have a high risk during pregnancy, childbirth, and for the condition of their baby," said the BPS in its 2024 Gender Inequality Index report.

In 2024, Indonesia's MHPK20 index was 0.248 on a scale of 0-1 points. This figure indicates that 24.8% of women aged 15-49 gave birth while still young.

This figure is lower than the previous year. However, according to the BPS, the reduction is not yet significant.

"This requires attention from the government to uphold marriage laws and take various actions to prevent teenage pregnancies," said the BPS.

The BPS also measures the level of risk during childbirth through the MTF index, which is the proportion of women aged 15-49 who give birth outside health facilities.

In 2024, Indonesia's MTF index was 0.094 on a scale of 0-1 points. This indicates that 9.4% of women aged 15-49 gave birth outside health facilities with the assistance of non-medical personnel, such as traditional birth attendants.

"Since 2018, this MTF figure has consistently decreased, indicating an increase in access to and use of health services during childbirth," said the BPS.

"Women with higher education tend to choose to give birth in health facilities. This tendency is driven by increased awareness of the importance of safe childbirth, a better understanding of health risks, and the ability to make more independent decisions," it continued.