Shaping the Future of Women’s Health in Nigeria: Insights from Top Experts
Empowering Change and Advancing Solutions for Women’s Health in Nigeria
A leading Nigerian gynaecologist, Professor Ernest Orji, has called on families to start saving for childbirth, saying it is a simple step that can help reduce the high number of women dying during delivery in Nigeria.
“Childbirth is not just a spiritual journey, it is a medical process with real risks. And that means families, especially fathers, must plan big and plan early.” – Prof. Ernest Orji
Prof. Orji explained that poverty and lack of preparation are among the main reasons many Nigerian women lose their lives while giving birth. “Many women die during childbirth because their families are unwilling or unable to afford the costs associated with delivery,” he said.
Prof. Orji, who has over 40 years of experience, stressed that having money set aside for delivery helps families pay for quality care, transport to the hospital, and any emergencies that may come up. “A well-prepared birth plan, including savings for essential needs, could improve outcomes and reduce stress during childbirth, ultimately leading to fewer maternal deaths,” he explained.
He pointed out that although some families have the money, they often do not want to spend it on delivery, thinking it is not necessary. “People would rather spend money on parties or drinking, but when it comes to delivery, they often resist, thinking their mothers or grandmothers never had to go to the hospital. This attitude results in the deaths of many women who could have been saved with timely intervention,” Prof. Orji warned.
Experts say the cost of delivery, especially if there are complications like a caesarean section, can be very high. Many families do not plan for these extra costs, which can lead to delays in getting the right care. According to a recent study, most spending on maternal health in Nigeria is still paid out of pocket, and this is a big barrier for many families. In rural areas, poverty makes it even harder for women to access skilled care, increasing the risk of death for both mothers and babies.
Prof. Orji also highlighted that some families choose to deliver at home or in religious centres instead of hospitals, which can be risky. “Childbirth is not just a spiritual journey, it is a medical process with real risks. And that means families, especially fathers, must plan big and plan early,” he said. He urged the government to ban unqualified people and religious centres from handling deliveries, and to encourage women to register at approved health facilities.
To make things easier, Prof. Orji suggested a pooled savings system, like health insurance, where pregnant women pay small amounts ahead of time. This way, money is available for emergencies, and women can get the care they need without delay. Some states in Nigeria have already tried giving free or low-cost maternal services, and this has helped reduce deaths.
He added;
“Childbirth is not just a spiritual journey, it is a medical process with real risks. And that means families, especially fathers, must plan big and plan early.” – Prof. Ernest Orji
Health experts agree that saving for childbirth, using health insurance, and planning ahead can help more women have safe deliveries. They also call for more government support, better education, and stronger health systems to make sure every mother gets the care she needs.
Summary:
Saving and planning for childbirth costs can save lives. Experts urge families, especially fathers, to prepare for delivery expenses, use health insurance, and choose skilled care at hospitals to help reduce maternal deaths in Nigeria.
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