Births outside healthcare facilities a concern
The department called upon all pregnant women to book for antenatal clinics before 20 weeks.
SEKHUKHUNE – The Limpopo Department of Health has noted with concern the increasing reports of pregnant women who give birth before they arrive at healthcare facilities.
In Tubatse, two women gave birth outside the premises of Ngwaabe Clinic, while one also gave birth at the Tubatse SAPS after the Praktiseer Clinic was closed. This is risky for both mothers and newborn babies.
Some clinics do not operate 24 hours.
The department believes that community members have a role to play in ensuring that women reach their nearest facility before they deliver.
The department called upon all pregnant women to book for antenatal clinics before 20 weeks.
“We are disturbed by the report that 4 548 women, during the 2020/21 financial year, delivered before arriving at our facilities either at home, in public or private transport, and some at police stations. During antenatal visits midwives usually advise pregnant women on the expected date of delivery.
“They also ask which facility they plan to deliver at, so that if it’s not operational 24 hours they are advised to choose from those providing 24-hour services. They are also ask what transport mode they will use to get to the delivery facility. Because ambulances are meant for emergencies only, we cannot plan on using them. It is unfortunate that our survey has proven that the majority of women who delivered at home or before arrival failed to comply with this advice.
“It takes between six, and in worse-case scenarios especially primigravida or first- time mothers, up to 16 hours from onset of labour until delivery of the baby.
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It is a common practice among mothers to stay at home after the onset of labour until contractions are severe, which is too late and by then the baby is ready to be delivered before they seek assistance, hence our plea that all pregnant women must seek help immediately when they start to feel labour pains,” said MEC Phophi Ramathuba.
She said the department remains committed to its programme of ensuring that all healthcare facilities will be open 24 hours.
