10/11/2025
Unity State sees surge in teenage pregnancies, maternal deaths as health workers urge action
Health experts in Unity State are warning of a worrying rise in teenage pregnancies and maternal deaths, calling for urgent government and donor support to strengthen reproductive health services.
According to County Health Director G*i Patai, more young girls are becoming pregnant before their bodies are fully developed, leading to complications such as fistula and death. “Many teenagers are getting pregnant too early, and some die from complications during childbirth,” he said.
Patai also expressed concern over possible environmental pollution from oil exploration, which he believes may be contributing to birth deformities among newborns. He added that many women miss antenatal care visits and vital supplements due to poor health access and flooding.
The Unity State Ministry of Health has begun identifying women with fistula and referring them to Bentiu State Hospital for treatment. Two women from Rubkona and Bentiu counties have successfully undergone surgery.
Despite ongoing support from Health Link South Sudan, Cordaid, and UNFPA through KOICA, limited funding, insecurity, and poor infrastructure continue to strain maternal health services.
©️
