By Jamillah Kemigisa
A silent crisis is unfolding in Bunyangabu, where the majority of expectant mothers are missing a crucial window of opportunity to safeguard their lives and those of their unborn children.
Despite decades of public health campaigns, only 27% of pregnant women in the district begin antenatal care (ANC) within the first trimester, according to Dr. Richard Obet, the District Health Officer. The remaining 73% delay care until later stages of pregnancy — a trend experts warn can be deadly.
“These delays greatly reduce our ability to detect complications early,” Dr. Obet cautioned. “Early antenatal care isn’t optional — it’s lifesaving.”
Early ANC enables healthcare providers to screen for infections, monitor fetal growth, administer critical treatments like folic acid and tetanus vaccines, and deliver essential health education. It also facilitates early intervention in high-risk pregnancies, such as those involving hypertension, diabetes, or HIV.
Amid the challenges, Bunyangabu has made significant progress in preventing mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. In the most recent quarter, 61 out of 65 HIV-positive mothers gave birth to HIV-negative babies — a powerful testament to the effectiveness of timely medical intervention.
“This proves the system works — but only when it’s accessed early,” Dr. Obet emphasized.
However, he also raised concern over a broader HIV trend: the district records an average of 150 new HIV cases every quarter, underscoring the urgent need for expanded testing, community outreach, and prevention strategies.
Missed Opportunities and Mounting Risks
Health officials warn that delayed ANC attendance not only increases maternal and infant mortality but also reduces the chances of managing treatable conditions. For HIV-positive mothers, late check-ups can mean delayed access to antiretroviral therapy — raising the risk of transmission to the baby.
Early ANC visits also offer vital guidance on nutrition, birth preparedness, family planning, and postpartum care — all critical to a safe pregnancy and delivery.
The Bunyangabu health leadership is urging community leaders, local health workers, and families to play a more active role in encouraging women to seek care immediately upon learning they are pregnant.
“We must shift the mindset,” Dr. Obet said. “Antenatal care is not a formality — it is the first step towards safe motherhood and a healthier future for our children.”
