By Friends of UNFPA | United Nations Population Fund
The ongoing conflict in South Sudan means many women in the young country are left without access to reproductive health care, making them especially vulnerable during childbirth. As in every emergency situation, 1 in 5 women are likely to be pregnant and according to estimates by UNFPA, 200,000 women are in need of essential maternal care.
For as little as $11, UNFPA can protect three women and their babies by providing them with clean birthing kits consisting of a bar of soap, a clear plastic sheet, a razor blade, an umbilical cord tie, a cloth and latex gloves to aid the safe delivery of babies in crisis situations.
After escaping from violence, Teresa found herself with no food, water or shelter and a toddler to care for. Her traumatic situation worsened while on her way to a nearby village by boat. Midway through the journey the boat capsized. Unable to swim and 6 months pregnant, Teresa was carried to the shore along with her 2 year old son. When she arrived at a civilian camp she went to a UNFPA supported clinic to ensure her baby was still healthy.
“They gave me medicine, education and appointments. They helped me find a place to live and gave me some food.” UNFPA ensured that Teresa had all the medical attention she required – she needed a cesarean-section due to a back condition she suffered from.
She was fortunate enough to give birth in a UN hospital. Many other women living in similar camps in South Sudan, however, do not have access to these facilities. A donation of $25 will supply a woman with hygiene essentials for six months, enabling her to maintain her dignity even during conflict.
For refugee women living in crisis situations such as those in South Sudan, complications of pregnancy and childbirth are the leading cause of death and disease and for new mothers like Teresa. Basic necessities and family support may be non-existent. Please consider making a generous donation that could save the lives and brighten the futures of women throughout the world.
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