Crisis in Afghan Healthcare: Surging Maternal Mortality Rates Endanger Pregnant Women

The shortage of female healthcare specialists and the closure of clinics in Afghanistan pose a serious threat to pregnant women. Maternal mortality rates in the country have soared to 600 deaths per 100,000 live births.

A Lack of Healthcare Services; Rising Maternal Mortality in Afghanistan

Afghanistan is facing significant challenges in its healthcare sector, particularly due to a severe shortage of female specialists and the closure of clinics in rural areas, which has endangered the lives of pregnant women. Reports indicate that the country has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with 600 deaths per 100,000 live births.

Residents of remote areas have pointed out the lack of medical facilities and trained midwives, often forced to travel to larger cities for treatment. Elham, a resident of Ghazni province, told Radio Free Europe, “In Giro district, there are no medical clinics, and most deliveries occur at home. We have seen patients die on the way to the city.”

Zarmina, a 34-year-old woman from a rural area, noted that access to medication and medical services has considerably declined following the halt of international mobile clinics. She remarked, “There are no female doctors or midwives near us. Home visits have ceased, and we are unable to travel to the cities.”

The Critical Situation for Pregnant Women in Remote Areas

Afghan women’s rights activist, Tarnam Saidi, highlighted the rising maternal mortality rates, stating, “In many regions, young women are not allowed to visit health centers without a male guardian. Women’s specific health centers are closing down, and some face a shortage of female staff. The statistics on maternal and infant mortality, especially in remote areas, have surged.”

Officials at the Taliban’s Ministry of Public Health have pledged to reduce maternal mortality rates within the next five years, but international agencies warn of significant challenges. The United Nations recently announced that nearly 100 health centers providing treatment for child malnutrition have closed due to reduced international aid.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned that the ongoing ban on girls’ education threatens to leave Afghanistan with a significant shortage of female healthcare workers by 2030. Experts view this situation as a serious threat to the lives of the next generation of Afghan mothers.