MATERNAL AGE AT MARRIAGE AND DELIVERY: IMPLICATIONS FOR MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH IN RURAL AREAS IN TIRUNELVELI DISTRICT

Abstract

Maternal health refers to the well-being of women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. Every stage should be a positive journey, guaranteeing that women and their infants achieve their utmost potential for health and well-being. This article examines the association between maternal age at marriage, maternal age at time of delivery, and their implications for maternal and child health. The study utilizes a dataset including variables such as mother's age at marriage, mother's age at delivery, order of child alive, and nature of delivery. Cross-tabulation analysis, and correlation analysis are employed to investigate the relationship between maternal age at marriage and delivery, and their impact on various health outcomes. The results of this study can provide insights into the importance of optimal maternal age and inform public health programs targeting maternal and child well-being.

Keywords: Maternal and Child Health (MCH), Maternal age, Child birth, Rural health