Barriers to care have deadly consequences for women and children in Baidoa

The main causes of death for pregnant women are blood-pressure-related complications, haemorrhage, and sepsis. All these conditions can become deadly if not treated in a timely manner and late access to healthcare increases the chance of death for both mother and baby.

Concerns grows over maternal and child health

Most maternal and paediatric deaths stem from delays in seeking care: delays in deciding to seek safe delivery services, delays in reaching a health facility, and delays in receiving prompt and suitable care upon arrival at a facility. These challenges experienced by women in Bay and the surrounding region contribute to the maternal and child mortality rates. 

Somalia has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with 621 deaths per 100,000 live births, and one of the highest child mortality rates, with approximately 137 deaths per 1,000 live births.

The healthcare infrastructure in the region is underdeveloped and suffers from a critical shortage of trained medical professionals. The few facilities that exist in Baidoa and at the periphery are often overwhelmed, particularly during emergencies and disease outbreaks. The region’s healthcare system struggles with limited resources, including human and financial resources, essential medications and medical supplies. 

Ongoing conflict further complicates the delivery of healthcare as it remains out of reach for the majority of people in conflict-affected and inaccessible areas.

Investment needed in the Bay region’s healthcare infrastructure

“The current state of maternal and child health in the Bay region calls for immediate attention,” says MSF’s head of programme in Somalia, Dr Pitchou Kayembe. “MSF calls upon national authorities and international organisations to invest more in strengthening the health system, both at basic and specialist levels, by allocating enough resources to improve access to healthcare for women and children in Bay region.”

“Maternal and neonatal deaths can be averted by making it possible for pregnant women to access antenatal care closer to their homes, reducing late referrals for complicated cases and increasing the number of women delivering in a health facility by raising awareness about available services,” they say. “At the same time, vaccination coverage and nutrition screening and support must be expanded. This is only possible through increased financial support, community engagement, and improved cold chain infrastructure.”