The Dire Conditions for Pregnant and Lactating Women in War-Torn Sudan
In the midst of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, pregnant and lactating women are facing unprecedented challenges. As reported by the UNFPA, the plight of women like Israa, who lost her newborn son due to a lack of access to healthcare, highlights the urgent need for medical support in war-affected areas. With only one maternity hospital remaining in Khartoum, the risks of childbirth have escalated dramatically. Women are forced to navigate dangerous environments just to seek basic medical care, and many are suffering from severe food insecurity and lack of hygiene.
The situation has deteriorated to such an extent that Khartoum resembles a ghost town, with many families displaced and living in overcrowded shelters. Health facilities are either destroyed or severely under-resourced, making it nearly impossible for residents to receive necessary treatments. Diseases such as cholera and polio are spreading rapidly, further complicating the health crisis.
Fortunately, mobile health teams supported by UNFPA are making a significant impact. These teams provide essential **reproductive health** services and psychological support to women and girls in shelters. Israa's story is one of resilience; after receiving care from a mobile health team, she successfully gave birth to a healthy baby boy, naming him after the doctor who helped her. The UNFPA has deployed 56 mobile health teams across 11 states in Sudan, conducting over 150,000 medical consultations since the conflict began.
However, humanitarian workers express the need for more consistent care and support. Many women are unable to afford necessary medications, and the demand for services far exceeds the available resources. The situation remains critical, and ongoing efforts are essential to ensure the safety and health of women and children in Sudan.
