Toiletry kits make a big impact on moms-to-be in Lesotho

At the Bobete Health Centre’s maternal waiting home, an often-overlooked aspect of care is making a significant impact on the lives of pregnant women: dignity. Alongside Hope is supporting Partners In Health (PIH) Lesotho’s program to provide essential toiletries to the expectant mothers at the centre. This initiative not only addresses a basic need but also restores dignity and comfort to women during a critical time in their lives. 

Lesotho, a small country landlocked by South Africa, has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, 566/100,000 live births. The rugged terrain and lack of access to health care facilities contributes to this tragic statistic. Women often travel long distances to reach the Bobete clinic, sometimes on foot. They brave harsh weather, treacherous paths, and limited transportation options. 

Since December 2023, Alongside Hope has been working with PIH Lesotho on a three-year project titled “An Innovative and System Strengthening Approach to Quality Maternal and Child Health Care in Lesotho.” This project provides pregnant women with financial incentives to attend their antenatal care sessions early. Women receive 350 Maloti ($26.70) during their first three months, and again during their fourth antenatal care session. Completing the eighth antenatal care session qualifies them for another M350 incentive as well as a baby starter pack, which includes a onesie, blanket and diapers. Women are encouraged to spread the word about the benefits of early antenatal care attendance to their peers, in turn prompting more women to seek timely care. 

During their stay at maternal waiting homes, they also receive essential toiletries, ensuring they can maintain personal hygiene and dignity. The toiletries include a bathing cloth, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap and lotion. These provisions help alleviate some of the social stigmas that might otherwise deter women from attending antenatal care sessions. 

Mojaba Mokoena, a registered nurse and midwife with PIH Lesotho, highlights the importance of this assistance. “Many of the women who come here are from very poor backgrounds,” she says. “Without these basic necessities, some women might choose to give birth at home to avoid the embarrassment of having nothing, especially when they are surrounded by other women who are better prepared.”

The maternal waiting home is a sanctuary where women can await the arrival of their babies with proper medical supervision, ensuring safer deliveries. However, the lack of personal items can be a significant barrier to accessing this crucial care. Mokoena notes that providing toiletries like soap, toothpaste and lotion can be a deciding factor for many women to seek the help they need at the health centre. 

Maboikano Poroane stayed at the home while she was waiting to give birth. “When I first came here, I had no basic necessities,” she recalled. “Here at the waiting home, we receive toiletries and other personal items, which might seem small but they are so important. Having these items has given me a sense of dignity and comfort. It’s one less thing to worry about, allowing me to focus on my health and my baby.” 

The provision of toiletries is more than just a gesture of goodwill; it is a lifeline for women like Poroane. It alleviates a burden, allowing them to concentrate on their health and the health of their unborn children. This simple act of providing essential items fosters an environment of care and respect, ensuring that every woman, regardless of her background, feels valued and supported. 

The incentive strategy implemented by PIH Lesotho has also expanded the reach of the Bobete Health Centre, attracting women from outside its catchment area. Alongside Hope also supports PIH Lesotho with transportation for pregnant women in emergencies, ensuring they can reach hospitals on time if an ambulance is unavailable. This assistance extends to providing pregnant women with beds, blankets, mattresses, sheets, food, washing basins and cabinets, creating a more supportive environment for mothers. Women referred by the health centre to deliver at hospitals also receive financial assistance to cover their costs.