LUCKNOW, April 12 -- Calling for greater emphasis on normal deliveries and improved training to prevent maternal deaths, the second day of the FOGSI Art of Birthing Conclave 'Womb to WorldCon' saw participation from nearly 500 to 600 doctors from across India and abroad, with key deliberations centred on strengthening safe motherhood practices. Organised by the Lucknow Obstetrics and Gynaecological Society under the aegis of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI), the conclave brought together experts, policymakers and practitioners to deliberate on emerging challenges and solutions in maternal healthcare, according to a press release issued on Saturday. Dr Pawan Kumar, additional commissioner (incharge - maternal health & immunization division), Union ministry of health & family welfare, stressed the importance of Midwife-Led Care Units in reducing maternal mortality, citing Kerala as a model due to its improved training systems and healthcare infrastructure. Dr Preeti Kumar, vice president of FOGSI, spoke on the need to strengthen safe motherhood initiatives at the grassroots level, noting uneven access to trained personnel and quality care, especially in rural areas. Dr Leela Vyas, former vice-president, FOGS, said that while India has made progress in reducing maternal mortality, postpartum haemorrhage remains a leading cause of maternal deaths. She said dedicated 'skill stations' at the conclave are training doctors in Active Management of the Third Stage of Labour (AMTSL), a key intervention to prevent excessive bleeding after childbirth.htc...