Monrovia, Liberia – A new maternity waiting home is set to open in Liberia, this is designed to provide essential support for at-risk pregnant women. Although the facility is awaiting its official license from the Liberian Government, but preparations are underway to create a safe environment for women who risk complications during pregnancy.
The Todee District community celebrated this significant milestone with the construction of the modern mantinty hospital, a development that many residents believe will transform healthcare access in the area.
Kathi Gutierrez, is the CEO of Dignity Liberia, she said: “The maternity waiting home is intended for women who may face challenges during labor. Our goal is to prevent complications such as obstetric fistula, a significant problem in Liberia,” stated Kathi Gutierrez, a key figure behind the initiative. She noted that Fistula, often caused by prolonged labor, can lead to incontinence and severe medical issues, affecting approximately 1,200 women in Liberia today.
According to her, the waiting home can accommodate up to ten women, ensuring personalized care to monitor their health in the critical final weeks of pregnancy. Gutierrez emphasized, “We want to prevent complications before they become serious, and if we can reduce the number of new cases, we will be able to provide surgical corrections for existing patients.”
The availability of the facility is going to help women not to incur any upfront costs at the facility; however, they are expected to bring minimal provisions, such as rice and a small contribution towards the delivery fees at government hospitals approximately $US20. Health screenings will take place during check-ups to ensure the women remain healthy throughout their pregnancies.
The overall project, which includes essential facilities such as septic systems, kitchens, and water supply, has an estimated cost of around $US190,000. Madam Gutierrez expressed gratitude for support received from various organizations, such as the Rotary Club of Monrovia and international partners.
The clinic project, is poised to follow the opening of the waiting home, is already in the fundraising phase, with hopes to commence construction next year. Madam Gutierrez also acknowledged the commitment of governmental partners to assist in this initiative and emphasized the importance of community support.
As the waiting home nears readiness, Gutierrez encourages local women to utilize the facility. “It’s about creating awareness and building relationships. We’re here to ensure the health and safety of mothers and their babies,” she said.
Often called the peepee and poopoo disease by those indigenous to Liberia, obstetric fistula is a medical condition, an injury that occurs during childbirth. This injury leaves a hole between the birth canal and the vagina or the bowel and birth canal, resulting in incontinence of urine or feces. This can also lead to complications of infertility and depression. Sufferers of fistula are usually socially isolated and stigmatized because of the leaking and foul-smelling discharge associated with this condition.
Mr. Sando K. Johnson, the Town Chief, expressed his gratitude to God and emphasized the positive impact this facility will have on the community. “This is all about my people, and I’m so happy,” he stated, highlighting the importance of the hospital for the entire district. The chief noted that the hospital will especially benefit the elderly women, over a thousand of whom currently reside in the district. “They are dancing with joy, seeing this as a long-awaited wish come true,” he added.
Johnson also addressed the struggles residents faced when seeking medical care, particularly for emergencies far from home, and urged the national government to support initiatives like this.
Community Health Supervisor Mr. David K. Nyantee echoed the chief’s sentiments, expressing his appreciation for the family that donated the land for the hospital. “It is not just about owning the land but about developing it for the community’s welfare,” Nyantee explained.
He pointed out that the local clinic lacked essential facilities, such as a waiting room for expectant mothers, often forcing families to seek care in Monrovia or nearby areas. The new hospital, he remarked, will provide a crucial service, especially for pregnant women who face risks in transit during emergencies.
Cece K. Kpanya, a representative from the Women group, also expressed immense gratitude for the hospital’s construction. “This has been a serious challenge for us,” Kpanya stated, referring to the difficulties women faced during childbirth without adequate facilities. “Many women have faced life-threatening situations because they had to travel far for care.” She urged the government to supply an ambulance to further enhance patient care.
The establishment of this hospital represents a beacon of hope for Todee District residents, promising improved healthcare and a brighter future for the community.
Reported by: Simeon S Wiakanty
Contact: +231881538878
