Uganda has made significant strides in improving maternal and child health, yet challenges remain, particularly in reducing maternal mortality. Real Health Uganda has been deeply involved in addressing these challenges, working closely with local healthcare providers and community leaders to ensure that mothers and their babies receive the care they need.

Strengthening Maternal Health: A Multi-Pronged Strategy

At the core of our efforts is a commitment to supporting mothers from pregnancy through childbirth and beyond. Our programs emphasize prenatal care, safe delivery practices, and comprehensive postnatal support. Recognizing that pre-eclampsia and postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) are leading causes of maternal deaths in Uganda, we work diligently with our member facilities to address these critical issues. We provide training, resources, and equipment to help healthcare workers identify and manage these conditions effectively.

We commend the ongoing efforts of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) Committee at the Ministry of Health. Their weekly updates on maternal and perinatal performance are crucial for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement. Real Health Uganda is proud to be part of this initiative, contributing to data collection and analysis that informs national strategies.

Supporting Mothers and Babies Beyond Birth

Our commitment to maternal health doesn’t end at childbirth. We work closely with healthcare providers to monitor babies for the first 90 days of life, ensuring they receive the necessary vaccinations, nutrition, and medical care. In many cases, our support extends to the child’s first birthday, providing a safety net for families who may face difficulties in accessing healthcare.

To make this possible, Real Health Uganda provides essential utilities, non-emergency patient transportation, and referral services. These resources are vital for mothers and infants who live in remote areas or who might struggle with the costs associated with healthcare.

Empowering Young Women Through Adolescent Health Programs

Teenage pregnancies remain a significant challenge in Uganda, contributing to higher rates of maternal and neonatal complications. To address this, Real Health Uganda runs an Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health Program. This initiative focuses on educating young women about their health, providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions.

For those who become pregnant, our program offers support that extends beyond healthcare. We connect young mothers with educational and vocational opportunities, helping them build a brighter future for themselves and their children.

A Call to Action: Continuing the Fight for Maternal Health

The work of Real Health Uganda and other organizations like Save the Children is making a difference, but there is still much to be done. We must continue to prioritize maternal health, ensuring that every mother in Uganda has access to the care she needs. By working together, we can address the gaps in our healthcare system and provide life-saving support to the most vulnerable.

As we move forward, Real Health Uganda remains committed to advancing maternal and child health. We will continue to collaborate with our partners, leverage our resources, and innovate our approaches to ensure that every mother and child in Uganda has the opportunity to thrive.