Kathmandu, September 24

Closure of out-patient services in hospitals has hit pregnant women hard.

Hundreds of pregnant women who have been visiting hospitals for regular check-up are compelled to return home without doctor’s advice due to closure of out-patient services.

Srijana Pandey, who travelled to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital from Swoyambhu, for regular check-up said her due date was October 10. “My first child died due to late delivery,” Pandey shared, adding, “I hope lack of regular check-up does not affect the health of my second child.”

Like Pandey, Sushma Shrestha of Dhapasi too was unaware of the doctors’ strike. She said she was into ninth month of her pregnancy and her due date was October 16. “Doctors should be responsible towards their patients. Their protest can cost lives.”

Dr Amir Babu Shrestha, director of Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital said, “During the last month of pregnancy, blood pressure and sugar level of a pregnant woman needs to be tested regularly. It’s a risky period for both expectant mothers and the baby.”

“15 per cent pregnant women have complications during the last month of pregnancy. A woman into ninth month of pregnancy cannot take chances,” said Dr Gita Gurung, head of Gynecology Department at TU Teaching Hospital. She said the hospital would provide services to pregnant women from the emergency ward, if required.