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Afghanistan

Midwife's care ensures safe pregnancy for Rahila

Zaranj, Nimroz – In the remote village of Khwaja Karim in Zaranj district, life is simple yet full of challenges. For generations, women’s deliveries have been attended by untrained elderly traditional birth attendants. While some deliveries were successful, many were marked by severe infections, uncontrollable bleeding, or even the tragic loss of mother and child.

Rahila, a 26-year-old woman full of hope, was one of those who endured such conditions. Her first delivery, a few years ago, ended in heartbreak. The local childbirth attendants in the neighbourhood failed to manage her delivery, and the use of unsanitary tools caused a severe infection in her uterus. Though Rahila and her baby survived, the infection left her unable to conceive again, a wound that deeply affected both her and her husband.

“When our (Mobile Health Team) was sent to this remote village, we faced immense challenges,” midwife Nafisa shared.

“The conditions were challenging, but our determination to provide safe medical care and education never wavered. One day, Rahila walked into our clinic. Her face reflected years of sadness, but there was a flicker of hope in her eyes.”

When Rahila met the midwife, she shared what bothered her: “I have been wishing for many years to have another child, but everyone says my uterus is damaged.”

Nafisa listened intently and examined Rahila. It was clear that the infection from her first delivery had caused significant damage.

With consistent care and treatment, Rahila’s condition began to improve. Every month, she returned for her check-ups, her hope growing stronger with each visit. “We moved forward step by step,” Nafisa said. “The important thing was not to lose hope.”

Finally, a welcome news

Months later, Rahila visited the MHT and, with excitement, told Nafisa she was pregnant.

Throughout Rahila’s pregnancy, the MHT closely monitored her health. Her family was educated about the importance of proper care, and Rahila followed every instruction diligently.

When it was time to deliver, the MHT rushed to her home. This time, the scene was completely different from her past experience. Nafisa and her team were prepared to ensure a safe delivery.

With careful management and the team’s support, Rahila gave birth to a healthy baby. The sound of the baby’s first cry filled the room, and a wave of relief washed over everyone.

Rahila cradled her newborn and thanked the MHT for supporting her throughout her journey.

“As I left her house that day, I felt an overwhelming sense of fulfilment,” Nafisa said. “Rahila and her husband’s long-held dream had finally come true. For Rahila, it was not just a new beginning—it was the hope of a brighter, healthier future.”