Ebola Outbreaks: Why Must Maternity Care Continue?

Why can avoiding maternity care during Ebola outbreaks be dangerous?

Reuters reporting published October 14 describes health workers seeing fewer women attend maternity services because of fears about Ebola and medical treatment. Some women reportedly seek help only after complications have become severe. These observations highlight an indirect consequence of an outbreak: the loss of timely care for unrelated conditions. However, the report also notes limitations in available data, so it cannot establish how much of the change in maternal outcomes is attributable to fear alone. [Reuters reporting](https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2026/10/14/as-ebola-spreads-in-eastern-congo-mothers-and-children-shun-vital-care)

The medical concern is well established. WHO identifies severe bleeding, infection and hypertensive disorders such as pre-eclampsia among major causes of maternal death. Pregnancy appointments create opportunities to recognize problems before they become critical, while skilled care during delivery enables rapid treatment when complications emerge. Severe bleeding after childbirth can become fatal within hours without treatment. The implication is that maintaining access to maternity services belongs within the outbreak response itself. [WHO maternal mortality fact sheet](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality)

How can health facilities provide safer maternity care during an Ebola outbreak?

Ebola can spread through direct contact with infected blood or other body fluids, including through contaminated equipment and surfaces. This makes infection prevention particularly important during childbirth, when exposure to blood and fluids is common. WHO recommends standard precautions for every patient, including hand hygiene, safe injections and appropriate protective equipment, with additional measures for suspected or confirmed Ebola. These safeguards reduce transmission risk; their reliable implementation matters more than blanket reassurance that every facility is safe. [WHO Ebola disease fact sheet](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ebola-disease)

Pregnant patients with Ebola still need obstetric care. WHO guidance calls for collaboration between maternity specialists and teams trained in Ebola management, recognizing that infection can increase the risk of miscarriage and early labor. Facilities must be able to direct patients to the appropriate service while maintaining access to essential treatment. Clear explanations of protective clothing, assessment procedures and referral arrangements can help families understand what will happen when they seek care. This practical approach follows WHO's emphasis on community engagement and respectful communication. [WHO pregnancy guidance](https://www.who.int/news/item/10-02-2020-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding-during-an-ebola-virus-outbreak)

What pregnancy and newborn care should continue during an outbreak?

WHO's antenatal model recommends at least eight contacts with a health professional, beginning within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. These contacts provide assessment, preventive care, nutritional support and opportunities to identify complications. The figures describe a recommended care schedule, not attendance measured during the current outbreak. If services change location or appointments are disrupted, the practical priority is to reconnect women with a functioning maternity service and an agreed delivery plan. A missed appointment should prompt efforts to restore care. [WHO antenatal recommendations](https://www.who.int/news/item/07-11-2016-pregnant-women-must-be-able-to-access-the-right-care-at-the-right-time-says-who)

Care must also continue after delivery. WHO recommends facility care for women and babies for at least 24 hours after birth, followed by at least three additional postnatal contacts during the first six weeks. After a home birth, the first contact should occur as soon as possible and within 24 hours. These checks support recognition of maternal and newborn complications, feeding support and recovery. Women or babies with health problems may need longer observation and more frequent follow-up; a routine schedule does not replace urgent assessment. [WHO postnatal recommendations](https://www.who.int/news/item/30-03-2022-who-urges-quality-care-for-women-and-newborns-in-critical-first-weeks-after-childbirth)