Attachments
Background and Rationale
Due to security risks, mobility restrictions and a shortage of transportation options, many pregnant women in Gaza struggle to reach birthing facilities. SRHR partners, health organizations, and institutions, including emergency services and community leaders, must commit to ensuring that all pregnant women can safely access well-equipped and staffed medical facilities that provide 24/7 services. However, during labour, some women may not have timely or safe access to the appropriate health facilities and may give birth with the help of family or community members.
This risk of facing barriers to accessing health facilities is compounded not only during deteriorating security conditions but also by the upcoming winter and floods season.
Clean delivery kits are a last resort to prevent infections for both the mother and the newborn when a pregnant woman cannot access a health facility to give birth.
Additionally, the CDKs can be carried by women when travelling to the facilities to give birth, ensuring they have a minimum level of hygiene items for themselves and the baby, even if there is a shortage in stock at the health point/hospital.
Therefore, as a preparedness and contingency measure, as well as an entry point for providing information on available services and when and how to seek care, UNFPA has procured and is distributing Clean Delivery Kits (CDKs) across the Gaza Strip.