Marabahan – Prematurity is still a major contributor to infant mortality in Indonesia. Seeing this urgency, Perinasia (Indonesian Perinatology Association) South Kalimantan Branch held a seminar and social service with the theme “Uncovering Prematurity from Intrauterine to Postpartum” in Marabahan, Barito Kuala, Saturday (5/17/2025).
This activity presented obstetricians, pediatricians, midwives, nurses, psychologists, and the general public. Also present was the Regent of Barito Kuala, Bahrul Ilmi, who expressed his appreciation for the educational activity.
The Head of Perinasia South Kalimantan, dr. Pudji Andayani, Sp.A Subsp. Neo, said that this activity aims to increase awareness and capacity of health workers and families in handling premature birth cases.
“We want to minimize psychological risks to mothers and support optimal care for premature babies, both medically and socially,” said dr. Pudji.
The activity was divided into two parts: an online scientific seminar for medical circles and a direct educational session and social service for the general public. In the educational session, testimonials from families who have cared for premature babies were also presented.
The Chief Executive, dr. M. Robbyanoor A.R, Sp.OG Subsp. H.FM, M.Kes, added that it is important for all parties—especially health workers and families—to understand the steps for handling prematurity from pregnancy.
“Prematurity can be minimized through early detection, appropriate counseling, and medical interventions such as progestin administration and Kangaroo Care,” explained Robbyanoor.
According to data quoted from WHO, complications due to premature birth are still the leading cause of neonatal death and the second leading cause of death for children under five years of age.
Babies born prematurely tend to experience respiratory problems, infections, and neurological complications. Without proper care, those who survive are at risk of lifelong disabilities.
Perinasia South Kalimantan also emphasized the importance of providing exclusive breastfeeding, family support, and psychological education to mothers during the postpartum period so that the breastfeeding process and baby care run optimally.
The role of partners and extended families is considered very crucial in helping mothers go through pregnancy and postpartum.
“Mothers not only need verbal support, but also involvement in decision-making and physical and emotional support when breastfeeding,” said Dr. Pudji.
The implementation of the Kangaroo Care method is also recommended for babies with low birth weight, because it has been proven to increase body temperature, breathing, and emotional bonds between mother and baby.
Through this activity, Perinasia South Kalimantan hopes to create a sustainable educational forum, both for medical personnel and the general public.
“We want to build a comfortable and solution-oriented discussion space, so that all parties feel involved in reducing the number of deaths due to prematurity,” concluded Dr. Pudji.
This activity is one of the concrete efforts in supporting the national target to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates, while improving the quality of life of future generations from an early age.
Anang Fadhilah
