Maternal Health in Afghanistan: Pista’s Journey of Hope

How maternal health services are changing lives in rural Afghanistan

In the remote village of Gosfandara, nestled in the mountainous Bagrami district near Kabul, life is a constant struggle. Villagers face harsh winters and difficult travel conditions, making it hard to access essential health and education services. With a population of 6,900 living in humble mud houses, families often find themselves isolated, battling not only the weather but also a lack of nearby healthcare facilities. This has resulted in a cycle of poverty and limited opportunities that many cannot escape.

Among these families was Pista, a 30-year-old mother of two young children. Her husband worked as a ragpicker to support both their family and his extended family, earning a meagre 30 AFN per day, barely enough to keep them fed and healthy. Pista was overwhelmed by the weight of household chores and the responsibility of caring for her undernourished children. Tragically, she lost her first baby due to malnutrition, and her second and third children were born weak and sick.

Despite these hardships, Pista never lost hope. One day, she learned about the free maternal health and nutrition services offered by PUI from a community member working at a nearby health facility. Encouraged by the possibility of receiving support, she made the courageous decision to seek care during her fourth pregnancy.

In May 2024, when she was 30 weeks pregnant, Pista visited the PUI-supported health facility for the first time. Doctors and psychosocial support counsellors immediately recognised her critical condition and encouraged her to attend regular follow-up consultations.

Improving maternal health through nutrition and regular care

During one of their conversations, the midwife gently reassured her:

“You must take care of yourself for your baby’s future. Together, we can ensure you and your baby thrive.”

During her examination, the midwife discovered that Pista was severely undernourished. With a Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) of only 20.5 cm and a weight of just 45 kg, it was clear that immediate action was needed.

Pista was enrolled in the Pregnant and Lactating Women (PLW) nutrition programme, where she received Lipid-based Nutrient Supplements (LNS), along with essential advice on nutrition, hygiene and self-care.

The doctor also encouraged her:

“I know things have been tough, but you’re not alone in this. We can turn things around together.”

With renewed hope, Pista carefully followed the advice of the health team. She took the nutritional supplements, prioritised her health check-ups and applied everything she had learned. Every visit to the health facility became another step towards recovery as she gained weight, regained strength and rebuilt her confidence.

Continuing care after childbirth

Pista’s journey did not end with the birth of her son.

The midwife continued to emphasise the importance of postnatal care, and Pista returned regularly for follow-up visits. With tears of joy in her eyes, she told the midwife:

“You saved my baby’s life. Thank you so much!”

As a new mother, she continued receiving Lipid-based Nutrient Supplements (LNS) to support her own recovery and provide the best possible nutrition for her baby.

The health facility staff remained by her side, monitoring her progress, celebrating each milestone and encouraging her every step of the way.

“You’re doing an amazing job,” they reassured her, strengthening her confidence that her efforts would help secure a brighter future for her children.

Restoring hope for mothers and families in Afghanistan

Today, Padshah is a healthy five-month-old baby and a joyful reminder of Pista’s remarkable journey from hardship to hope.

Reflecting on her experience, Pista said:

“This care has changed our lives. My baby is healthy and strong because of the support I received. I worry about other women in my village who are in the same situation, but what I can do is encourage them to visit health facilities during pregnancy and for delivery.”

Pista’s story demonstrates how access to quality maternal healthcare and nutrition services can transform lives. She overcame malnutrition and despair, regained her health and confidence, and now stands as a source of hope for other women in her community.

With her son Padshah by her side, she looks towards the future with renewed strength and optimism.