Ghor, Afghanistan – When Fariba found out she was pregnant for the sixth time, she got a mix of emotions as she was also told that she had anaemia, which could cause problems later in the pregnancy if not given proper medical care.

As life was already difficult, Fariba worried about the medical expenses that would be associated with treating her condition. She felt desperate and simply prayed for her pregnancy to be okay.

But Fariba’s worries were short-lived. A community health worker referred her to a Family Health House (FHH) next to her village, where she met midwife Hakima. During her first consultation, Fariba immediately knew she would be in good hands. The other good news was that the maternal health services were free of charge in the FHH, which was established by UNFPA with support from the Government of Australia.

Fariba felt a ray of light shone on her. She was grateful and relieved that someone genuinely cared and offered a helping hand. With hopes high that she would receive the necessary care, Fariba enthusiastically visited the FHH for her antenatal care, with each meeting bringing her closer to the midwife.

Anaemia is a condition in which a person has low red blood cells that carry oxygen to a pregnant woman’s tissues and baby. It is common among pregnant women and could cause complications, such as preterm delivery and infections later in the pregnancy and post-delivery if not properly addressed.

As months passed, Fariba’s belly grew, and her interactions with the midwife became more frequent. “Hakima was more than just a midwife; she became a friend, like a guardian angel watching over my unborn child and me,” said Fariba.

Her mind was worry-free until the day her labour started – it was a public holiday, and Fariba and her husband thought that the FHH would be closed. The fear of experiencing complications and not having a skilled birth professional during her delivery concerned Fariba. But her husband remained positive. “We must take a chance and proceed to the FHH,” he told her.

The couple’s journey to the FHH felt like an eternity, each step echoing the rhythm of their racing hearts. When they finally reached the facility, the sight of Hakima was one that they prayed for.  "I am here,  your baby will be safely delivered here,” the midwife greeted them.

As Fariba’s labour progressed, Hakima stayed with her, offering words of encouragement and strength until the baby’s cries filled the room. Fariba was relieved and thanked the midwife.

In the days that followed, Fariba said she and her newborn received the best care possible from the FHH, with Hakima present every step of the way, offering guidance on breastfeeding, newborn care, and advice on birth spacing.