Western Cape Pregnancy Education Week, 15

Pregnancy Education Week, 15 - 21 February 2004
13 February 2004

In South Africa women have a higher risk of dying during pregnancy and childbirth than anywhere else in the developed world. The risk of a pregnant woman dying is a staggering12 times higher than elsewhere in developed countries. Countrywide 150 pregnant women out of every 100 000 die during pregnancy or at childbirth. In the Western Cape the figures are much lower, but are still at 45 mothers to be out of every 100 000.

Provincial Health Minister, Mr Piet Meyer, says these shocking statistics place an undeserved blot on the health services of the country and especially the Western Cape, which boasts the best health services. "This is an unjustified blot because of the deaths of pregnant women could have been avoided and have nothing to do with the state of health services or even the lack of such services. It is for this reason that pregnancy education week should receive the widest possible exposure. By just adhering to the basics, we can save the lives of thousands of pregnant mothers," says Mr Meyer.

"It is rather the lack of knowledge than irresponsible behaviour which is responsible for these deaths. With pregnancy education week, the sixth time we are staging this annual event, it is our aim and purpose to inform mothers to be or couples planning a family, what the basic requirements are. It is an initiative to prevent maternity deaths."

The Minister appealed to pregnant women to report their condition within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy at clinics for the necessary check-up. "If we are aware of complications or possible problem cases we can do something about it and need it never necessarily end in a miscarriage or death."

Information about what women need to do before, during and after pregnancy will be distributed during pregnancy week as well as information about services provided by the Provincial Health Department.

Enquiries:
Chris Koole
Cell: 0827743462

PREGNANCY EDUCATION WEEK - 15 - 21 FEBRUARY 2004
INFORMATION SHEET:

What should women know?

Visit your nearest clinic or doctor as soon as you suspect that you may be pregnant.
Book early and attend regularly for check-ups.
Substance abuse eg alcohol and smoking can harm your unborn baby.
Know your HIV status - ask about voluntary HIV counselling and testing at your nearest clinic.
Discuss and plan feeding options with clinic staff.
Know the danger signs during pregnancy and seek help immediately when danger signs are noted. These are:
- bleeding from the vagina
- headaches
- blurred vision or seeing stars
- swollen hands, feet and/or face
- fits
- fever
- paleness and /or tiredness
- difficulty in breathing
- lower abdominal pains
- baby not kicking well.

Contact your nearest clinic or doctor immediately when any of these signs are noticed.

What can be offered during this week?

Health facilities will intensify their educational activities during this week. Teaching expectant mothers, and their partners where possible, about the pregnancy, what to look out for and when to return to the health facilities.
Articles in the local newspapers.
Talks on radio stations.
Health talks at places of work.

Services Rendered by the Department of Health:

Family planning services to enable a woman/couple to plan the pregnancy.
Genetic counselling services.
Antenatal services, which include health promotion and education to prospective parents (emphasis is being placed on the involvement of fathers).
Delivery services at Midwife Obstetric Units, Hospitals and Private Institutions.
Postnatal services to both mother and newborn.
Clinic services for both mother and baby at the various Primary Health Care facilities.

Important Points to the Pregnant Woman:

P preconceptional information is important

R remember to book early

E exercise regularly

G gain support from the family

N nutrition - eat healthy

A abstain from smoking and alcohol use

N nurture yourself

C coping with pregnancy disorders

Y your personal hygiene is important

For further information please contact your nearest health facility or the Provincial Department of Health -
Ms E Arends at 483 2680/483 4216

Issued by: Western Cape Provincial Government, Department of Health
13 February 2004