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More than 100,000 people have crossed into Armenia since hostilities reignited last year in Karabakh, the region at the heart of a decades-long territorial conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Among the refugees, more than 2,000 are estimated to be pregnant and hundreds are expected to give birth in the coming months.
Marta, a 28-year-old single mother, became pregnant several months after a blockade went up against Karabakh, restricting access to essentials like food, fuel and medicine. “There was no proper food,” Marta said. “I frequently sought medical care; they would have me hospitalized for a couple of days and treat me, and then the same thing all over again.” Marta had to flee her home. But her anxiety escalated at the border crossing into Armenia, where the stress of displacement triggered labor pangs. She only hoped she would not have to give birth on the road. Finally, she reached a place where she could access health care and take an ambulance to a UNFPA-supported maternity hospital in Vardenis. "The doctors were pessimistic. They were convinced that my child would not survive,” said Marta. “I was weak, bleeding – but I insisted that my son was going to be born no matter what.” Marta gave birth in Vardenis, becoming one of 88 women refugees to have delivered in Armenia at the time. Her baby was born about one month early, mirroring a trend that has affected many pregnant refugees who fled conflict in Karabakh. As pregnant refugees face stress, malnutrition, and all that comes with displacement, humanitarian gifts from donors like you are delivering lifesaving care to them and their newborns.
While trying to envision an uncertain future, Marta stays rooted in the present, a strong pillar for her family. She told UNFPA: "I will stand tall and work diligently to provide for my children.” Thank you for being there for women like Marta. — USA for UNFPA |
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