Mothers in northern Afghanistan's Jawzjan province report pregnancy nutrition risks amid poverty

SHIBERGHAN, Afghanistan (Afghan Verified) -- Mothers in northern Jawzjan province say poverty and lack of awareness about proper nutrition during pregnancy are endangering their health and that of their children, with malnutrition worsened by insecurity, drought and rising food prices.

Malnutrition poses a serious public health challenge in Afghanistan, affecting mothers' health and children's growth. Its causes include poverty, insufficient diverse food, low family awareness of healthy nutrition and limited access to health services, especially in rural areas.

Zahra, a 30-year-old resident of Khwaja Du Koh district, said her first pregnancy involved mostly bread and tea due to economic hardships, resulting in a stillborn baby. Now pregnant again, she received advice from a doctor to eat more fruit, vegetables, dairy and eggs, along with nutritional supplements from a clinic.

Fatima, 28, from Nawabad village in Shiberghan, described feeling weak during her first pregnancy despite iron and folic acid supplements. She has since learned to consume fruit, vegetables, sufficient water and affordable options like beans and eggs, as economic issues limit access to meat and fresh produce. Her midwife recommended lentils, beans and eggs as substitutes.

Shakiba, 36, a mother of four from Shiberghan, recounted eating mainly bread and tea while pregnant with her now three-year-old son, whose husband was working in Iran. Lacking guidance from doctors or midwives, her son was born small and remains weak, frequently ill with delayed speech. She now follows doctors' advice on affordable nutritious foods for her expected child in three months.

Dr. Soraya Qayoumi, a gynecology and obstetrics specialist at Jawzjan's provincial hospital, said a mother's body during pregnancy requires balanced nutrition to sustain itself and support fetal growth. Poor nutrition can cause low birth weight, premature delivery, anemia, high blood pressure and fetal loss. She noted folic acid deficiency in early pregnancy risks brain and spinal abnormalities, while later iron and protein shortages lead to maternal weakness, fatigue and depression.

Qayoumi advised pregnant women to prioritize fruits, vegetables, dairy, legumes and avoid excessive tea, coffee, soft drinks and fatty foods.