File photo of a pregnant woman
The Eastern Regional Focal Person for Maternal Health, Doris Darkoa Mantey, disclosed to the media that the Eastern Region recorded 18 maternal deaths between January and May 2025.
She highlighted that most of these fatalities occurred at prayer camps where expectant mothers opted to deliver.
Mr Adu Mantey expressed deep concern over the situation, emphasising the urgent need for targeted education to encourage pregnant women to prioritise hospital deliveries.
She stressed that men of God lack the requisite expertise in child delivery compared to midwives.
“Midwives undergo rigorous training to handle complications, which is why every pregnant woman should deliver at a hospital for their safety,” she underscored. Mantey made these remarks in Koforidua during the International Day of the Midwife celebration, themed “Midwives: Critical In Every Crisis”.
She further clarified that while health professionals prefer safe deliveries without surgical intervention, caesarean sections are sometimes necessary to save the lives of both mother and child.
“Women who express reluctance towards caesarean sections should understand that the ultimate goal is a safe delivery,” she stated.
Additionally, Mantey commended Ghanaian midwives for their dedication and admonished them to maintain professionalism, emphasising that their work is a calling.
Augustine Adu, National Public Relations Officer of the Midwives Society and guest of honour, highlighted the critical role midwives play in the health sector, advocating for respect and appropriate benefits.
He recalled the pivotal contributions of midwives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He urged Ghanaians to appreciate midwives’ massive contributions on this special day.
The celebration, led by the Eastern Regional Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association under Rev. Hayford Laryea, included the presentation of awards to outstanding midwives, encouraging them to continue delivering quality healthcare services.
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