Bridging gaps in pregnancy care through community outreach

One day in December, Koli noticed her period had ceased for two months, a worrisome situation given her circumstances. Unable to afford a pregnancy test, she spent her days in anxious anticipation. It was during this time that a Community Health Worker visited her home, introducing her to the healthcare services provided by the health facility, run by Gonoshasthaya Kendra (GK) in partnership with Malteser International. Feeling encouraged, Koli reached out to our health facility, the Amjakhali Community Clinic, for assistance. There, she built rapport with the clinic's midwife, who informed her about the array of services available: antenatal care, hemoglobin tests, urine tests, pregnancy tests, iron calcium supplements, vitamins, and post-natal care – all completely free of charge. Koli attended six check-ups during her pregnancy. 

When her labor began, she contacted the midwife and was immediately referred to Kutubdia Upazila Health Complex. Unfortunately, Koli’s husband was out at sea, and her mother-in-law was hesitant about taking her to the hospital. After the midwife explained the advantages of hospital delivery, her mother-in-law finally agreed. That night, Koli was overjoyed as she welcomed her second child. Both mother and child were healthy and able to return home the following day. In subsequent postnatal checkups, Koli expressed her gratitude for the excellent care received during her second delivery.