A R37-million project to reduce maternal infant mortality has been launched in the Eastern Cape, the province’s department of health said on Wednesday.
Spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo said the ”Saving Mothers Saving Babies” project will be implemented in 30 district hospitals and community health centres in the Eastern Cape.
”The high levels of maternal deaths and infant mortality remain a concern in the province. This intervention will ensure that new mothers and their babies enjoy a safe, comfortable and friendly environment.”
Kupelo said post-partum haemorrhage (after-birth or -delivery bleeding), hypertension, non-pregnancy-related infections, and pregnancy-related infections stemming from, for example, illegal abortions have been identified as major causes of maternal death.
The initiative will also address contributing factors such as illegal abortions and a lack of clinic visits by pregnant women, especially in rural areas.
Maternity wards in all hospitals and community health centres will be also be refurbished.
Kupelo said the department is currently training more than 400 nurses in midwifery and 50 in advanced midwifery. — Sapa