UN warns of rising risks for pregnant women amid Yemen conflict
The United Nations has highlighted the growing dangers faced by pregnant women in Yemen due to ongoing conflict between Iran-backed Houthis and Saudi-backed government forces. Fighting has disrupted reproductive healthcare, with many facilities destroyed or repurposed to treat war casualties. Over 3,100 pregnant women have been displaced since early September, worsening access to emergency obstetric care and increasing maternal mortality risks.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1)
The United Nations has warned that pregnant women in Yemen face escalating risks as ongoing fighting between Iran-backed Houthi rebels and Saudi-backed government forces severely limits access to reproductive healthcare.
According to Francesco Galtieri, UN Population Fund representative in Yemen, about three women were dying daily from pregnancy and childbirth-related causes as recently as eight weeks ago. However, recent displacement and growing uncertainty have further restricted healthcare services for pregnant women and women of reproductive age.
Since early September, more than 3,100 pregnant women have been displaced, and nine UNFPA-supported health facilities have been destroyed or rendered nonfunctional, with eight others suspending services. Many pregnant women are uncertain where they will give birth, with some delivering by the roadside.
Galtieri emphasized the alarming situation, noting limited data from inaccessible areas and expecting further displacement as fighting continues, which will increase pressure on already strained healthcare services.
The conflict has also caused civilian casualties, including an attack in Aden that killed at least five people and injured 16, with Houthi rebels claiming responsibility. Over 200,000 people have been displaced amid escalating tensions.