A third of women in Afghanistan give birth outside health facilities: UNICEF

According to the United Nations’ children agency, UNICEF, one-third of pregnant women in Afghanistan deliver their babies outside of a healthcare facility.

UNICEF reported that just over 67 percent of births in Afghanistan are attended by skilled health professionals.

The agency highlighted that despite recommendations for at least four antenatal visits with skilled providers, only one-third of Afghan women receive this level of care.

UNICEF emphasized the critical risks faced by mothers who give birth outside of healthcare facilities, noting that their lives are endangered without professional assistance.

In cases where complications like haemorrhage or fetal distress arise, the absence of medical professionals significantly reduces the chances of timely intervention.

Last month, the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed alarming statistics indicating Afghanistan experiences an average of 24 maternal deaths daily due to preventable causes.

Additionally, WHO reported that 167 infant deaths occur daily in Afghanistan for similar preventable reasons, underscoring the urgent need for improved maternal and child healthcare services.

These findings highlight the severe challenges and high mortality rates faced by mothers and infants in Afghanistan, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced healthcare infrastructure and services in the country.

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