Tragic death: Urgent need for antenatal care, support systems for pregnant women

By Klem Ikoi

A recent tragedy in Letekom 1 of Ikpakapit Council Ward, Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, underscores the dire consequences of neglecting antenatal care and support for pregnant women.

Mrs Nneoyi Enang, a heavily pregnant woman, tragically lost her life following a dispute with Mrs Ofem Usani Augustine, a relative of her husband, Mr Williams Ettah Bassey. The stress from the altercation is believed to have contributed to her untimely demise.

This heartbreaking incident is not isolated. Similar tragedies have occurred in various communities, where pregnant women have died due to family conflicts, marketplace disputes, and other stress-inducing situations. These incidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive antenatal education and support systems for pregnant women to prevent such avoidable deaths.

The Importance of Antenatal Care

Antenatal care is crucial for the health and well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. During antenatal visits, healthcare providers educate pregnant women on how to manage stress, avoid strenuous activities, and steer clear of potentially dangerous situations like physical altercations. These sessions are vital for ensuring that expectant mothers understand the physiological changes their bodies undergo and how to protect themselves and their babies.

Government’s Role in Supporting Pregnant Women

The government has a critical role to play in addressing these issues. Here are several steps that can be taken to provide the necessary support and education to pregnant women:

1. Compulsory Antenatal Care: The government should mandate antenatal care for all pregnant women. This would ensure that every expectant mother receives the necessary medical attention and education to maintain her health and that of her baby.

2. Conflict Resolution and Stress Management Education: Appointing a Senior Special Advisor on Conflict Resolution could help develop programmes to educate women on managing conflicts and stress effectively. This education could be integrated into antenatal care programmes to reach a broad audience of pregnant women.

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3. Establish Support Systems: The government should establish robust support systems for pregnant women, including counselling services, hotlines, and community support groups. These resources can provide pregnant women with the emotional and psychological support they need during this critical period.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching public awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of antenatal care and the dangers of stress and conflict during pregnancy can help change societal attitudes. These campaigns should target both men and women, emphasising the role of husbands in supporting their pregnant wives.

A Call to Action

The tragic death of Mrs Nneoyi Enang should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders. We must recognise the vital importance of antenatal care and the need for comprehensive support systems for pregnant women. By taking proactive measures, the government can help prevent similar tragedies in the future, ensuring that every pregnant woman receives the care and support she needs to bring a healthy child into the world.

The community must rally together, supporting initiatives that promote the well-being of pregnant women and ensuring that no expectant mother is left to navigate this critical period alone. Together, we can create a safer, healthier environment for our mothers and their babies.