Important Facts of the News
- 11,600 pregnant women are estimated to be affected by the 31 August earthquake in eastern Afghanistan.
- The earthquake was followed by several aftershocks.
- UNFPA deployed emergency response and mobile health teams within hours of the disaster.
- Four mobile health teams are currently providing reproductive and maternal healthcare.
- Affected provinces include Nangarhar, Kunar, Laghman and Nuristan.
- Reproductive health supplies have been delivered to support safe births at health centres and hospitals.
- Essential hygiene items, including menstrual supplies, soap and disinfectant, have been distributed.
- Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the Asia Pacific region.
- UNFPA continues to support 20 clinics and psychosocial support centres in the affected areas.
Overview
Thousands of women in Afghanistan are facing severe health risks after the powerful earthquake that struck the eastern part of the country on 31 August. Based on current estimates, around 11,600 pregnant women have been affected. The disaster, followed by multiple aftershocks, has intensified existing challenges for women and girls already living in difficult conditions.
Health Services Mobilized for Women and Girls
In response, UNFPA has moved quickly to assess needs and deliver crucial healthcare and protection services. Emergency response teams and mobile units have been deployed across impacted locations. The agency has prioritized maternal and reproductive healthcare, recognizing that pregnancy in Afghanistan already involves significant risk due to limited health infrastructure and resource gaps.
Reaching Remote and Affected Communities
Damaged roads and difficult terrain have made it challenging to reach many communities. Despite this, four mobile health teams are active in Nangarhar, Kunar, Laghman and Nuristan provinces. These teams are providing ambulance support, emergency medical supplies and care for women who are pregnant or require reproductive health assistance.
Supplies and Hygiene Support
To help ensure safer childbirths, UNFPA has delivered reproductive health supplies to health centres and hospitals. Women and girls in affected communities have also received essential hygiene kits containing menstrual supplies, soap and disinfectants. These resources are intended to help them maintain dignity and well-being during a period of crisis.
Continued Support on the Ground
UNFPA’s ongoing services extend beyond emergency care. The organization is providing continued support to 20 health clinics, family health centres and psychosocial support centres in the affected areas. These facilities remain operational and are playing an important role in providing both medical and mental health assistance.
Ensuring Safety Amid Crisis
The situation underscores how natural disasters intensify existing vulnerabilities for women and girls. For those who are pregnant, the risks are even greater. The continued delivery of maternal healthcare and hygiene support is therefore vital to preventing avoidable health complications and protecting lives in the aftermath of the earthquake.