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I am writing in response to an article entitled “The perils of Motherhood at age 14” which was published on May 23, 2016. I highly commend the BMJ for publishing this very shocking, yet informative case study report which gives a first-hand report of the real health and social challenges that pregnant and delivered children encounter. Having practiced midwifery for more than 13 years, it was incredibly disheartening to read the sad story about the young girl Keya in Bangladesh.
Child marriage and very early motherhood clearly remain major public health and social concerns. Further research, policy and action are needed to raise public awareness, to address poverty and gender inequality that perpetuates this practice and to educate and support the young girls and families who suffer the consequences of child marriage (UNICEF, 2014). As healthcare professionals we must also do more to empower women and young girls. Thank you for reminding us that we all have the responsibility to advocate and to put an end to child marriages.
Re: The perils of motherhood at age 14
I am writing in response to an article entitled “The perils of Motherhood at age 14” which was published on May 23, 2016. I highly commend the BMJ for publishing this very shocking, yet informative case study report which gives a first-hand report of the real health and social challenges that pregnant and delivered children encounter. Having practiced midwifery for more than 13 years, it was incredibly disheartening to read the sad story about the young girl Keya in Bangladesh.
Child marriage and very early motherhood clearly remain major public health and social concerns. Further research, policy and action are needed to raise public awareness, to address poverty and gender inequality that perpetuates this practice and to educate and support the young girls and families who suffer the consequences of child marriage (UNICEF, 2014). As healthcare professionals we must also do more to empower women and young girls. Thank you for reminding us that we all have the responsibility to advocate and to put an end to child marriages.
Reference
UNICEF, (2014) Child protection from violence, exploitation and abuse: Child marriage. Retrieved from: http://www.unicef.org/protection/57929_58008.html
Competing interests: No competing interests