World Health Day message

Today, on World Health Day, UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, joins the World Health Organization in drawing attention to the safety of health facilities and the readiness of health workers to treat people in emergencies.

We draw particular attention to the needs of pregnant women. When disaster strikes, they fear for their own health and that of their babies and need the support of skilled health workers.

In any setting, one in five women of childbearing age is likely to be pregnant, and 15 per cent of pregnant women will experience life-threatening complications during delivery. When medical facilities are damaged or wiped out by disasters or conflict, women are forced to give birth without the essentials for safe delivery.

This lack of medical support is often compounded by additional risk factors that threaten the health of women and babies. Such risks include trauma, malnutrition or disease, and exposure to violence. Pregnant women in emergency situations can experience premature labour, miscarriage, stillbirth, and the negative effects of violence.

Together with partners, UNFPA responds to emergencies by sending health supplies and equipment to ensure clean and safe childbirth, and to support medical interventions where necessary. UNFPA also provides training for health workers and midwives to make sure women receive the care they need during all phases of pregnancy, childbirth and post-partum care. We also work with the World Health Organization and others to repair and restock maternal health clinics and hospital wards.

Today, on World Health Day, we pay tribute to health workers who respond when emergencies strike, and call for greater attention to be paid to the needs of women and their right to sexual and reproductive health.