Around 3,000 pregnant women in Karenni State are facing significant challenges in accessing childbirth and postnatal healthcare, according to a report released on 25 November by the Women and Children’s Affairs Department of the Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC).

The report, based on data compiled on 1 October, highlights that 740 pregnant women are currently residing in IDP camps within Karenni State, out of an estimated 3,000 across the state.

Pregnant women in the region face severe obstacles, including inadequate nutrition, limited healthcare access, and difficulties in transportation and security due to ongoing conflict.

Maw Phray Myar, chairperson of the Karenni National Women’s Organization (KNWO), noted that these challenges have, in some cases, resulted in the deaths of both mothers and newborns.

The report also identifies additional issues stemming from limited awareness of vaccinations, contraception, and reproductive health among women.

“Some babies are born with jaundice, but this often goes unnoticed until complications arise due to delayed treatment,” said Maw Phray Myar.

She also pointed to a lack of access to contraceptives, which can lead to unplanned pregnancies, domestic conflicts, and instances of gender-based violence.

Although some healthcare services are provided by revolutionary forces and the IEC Health Department, the report acknowledges that the support is insufficient to meet the needs of the region’s pregnant women.

In addition to the estimated 3,000 pregnant women, the IEC data indicates that there are approximately 20,000 displaced women across Karenni State. Many of these women face reproductive health issues related to early marriage, poor access to hygiene products, and limited financial resources.

The IEC report underscores the urgency of addressing these concerns by improving access to personal hygiene products and raising awareness of reproductive health, particularly for adolescent girls and women of reproductive age.

To address these pressing issues, the Women and Children’s Affairs Department plans to develop initiatives to provide essential nutritional supplements and healthcare services to pregnant and breastfeeding women. The department is also calling on relevant stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring these women receive the necessary support.