The World Health Organization issues a warning about the possibility of fewer healthy births
According to a recent World Health Organization report, more women are getting pregnant and giving birth than ever before.
According to the report, maternal deaths have decreased by 40% in just the last 23 years.
WHO maternal health expert Dr. Femi Oladapo provides information on how to have a safe pregnancy and delivery in an episode of Science in Five, which is hosted by Vismita Gupta-Smith and aired by the organization on its official platforms.
Avoiding complications
"A major life event, giving birth can be a time of joy, hope, and fresh starts, but it can also be a time of fear and complications," Oladayo stated. "For a woman to have a healthy pregnancy, regular medical checkups and good nutrition are essential to prevent complications during pregnancy."
He added, "During these examinations, the woman should expect to undergo tests such as urine and blood tests, an ultrasound, glucose levels, and blood pressure measurements, in addition to monitoring her baby's growth."
warning signs
He pointed out that there are some warning signs that could indicate imminent complications, with women being alert for symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, severe headaches, or leg swelling. If any of these symptoms appear, a woman should see a doctor or go to the hospital.
global problem
He explained that maternal mortality remains a global problem. In 2023, 260,000 women died as a result of complications from pregnancy or childbirth.
He pointed out that bleeding is the leading cause of maternal death, accounting for more than 25% of maternal deaths in 2023.
This number is equivalent to about 700 maternal deaths per day, or approximately one death every two minutes, which is similar to a jumbo jet crashing every day.
High blood pressure, known as preeclampsia, is another major cause, but the real tragedy is that many of these deaths are preventable.
Early diagnosis
Dr. Oladayo added that serious health complications and consequences associated with postpartum hemorrhage can be prevented if diagnosed early.
The secret to this lies in rapid detection and effective treatment. Unlike in the past, when doctors and nurses estimated the amount of blood a woman lost, the World Health Organization has developed an effective solution: a special plastic cap called a "calibrated cap" to more accurately measure the amount of blood lost by a woman.
Reduce deaths by 60%
Immediately after delivery, the doctor places the device under the woman's buttocks. The lost blood is then collected in a "titration cap." Once blood loss reaches a certain threshold, in this case 500 ml, the woman is given a series of treatments at approximately the same time, within fifteen minutes.
In a study involving more than 200,000 women, this method was shown to reduce the risk of severe blood loss of more than a liter, surgery to stop bleeding, or death by up to 60%.
Pregnant women's rights
He explained that a pregnant woman has the right to a safe and positive pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum experience, where she is treated with dignity and respect. She also has the right to have a companion of her choice with her throughout her pregnancy, including during labor and delivery. She also has the right to move around during labor and choose her birthing position.
He added that pregnant women also have the right to receive painkillers, explaining that a birth plan, prepared by a specialist physician, ensures a safe pregnancy and delivery and ensures that both mothers and babies remain healthy.