The United Nations Population Fund has stated that supporting midwives is the most effective way to save the lives of mothers and their newborns in Afghanistan.
On this occasion of International Day of the Midwife today (Tuesday, May 5), the organization mentioned that this support can expand access to prenatal care, safe childbirth, and postnatal care.
In its report from last June, the organization warned that due to a severe reduction in international funding, the health of mothers and access for millions of Afghan citizens to vital health services are at serious risk.
The organization indicated that approximately 6.3 million people in Afghanistan, the majority of whom are women and girls, will no longer have access to essential health care.
The United Nations Population Fund further emphasized that hundreds of health centers in remote areas and mobile clinics across Afghanistan have been forced to close due to budget shortages.
The International Day of the Midwife is celebrated by the World Health Organization and the International Confederation of Midwives to honor the vital role these medical professionals play in maternal and newborn health, reducing mortality rates, and providing health education.
The aim of this day is to raise awareness about the critical role of midwives in community health, reduce maternal and newborn mortality, and celebrate their efforts.
According to reports, limited access to primary health care due to a shortage of skilled midwives in remote parts of Afghanistan continues to pose a threat to the health of mothers and newborns.
Additionally, from 2024 onwards, the education of girls and women in midwifery has also been prohibited.
